Capturing the Portrait of Lord Monson for His Memoir’s Cover: Rory Lewis’s Distinctive Approach to Portraiture

In a recent portrait session for Lord Nicholas Monson, I was entrusted with capturing the image for the cover of his forthcoming memoir. Monson's book, which chronicles his life filled with both privilege and tragedy—including the loss of his two sons—delves into the complexities of his childhood and personal experiences. It is a striking narrative that needed an equally compelling visual to represent it, and I was honored to be part of this project.

Capturing the Portrait of Lord Monson for His Memoir’s Cover: Rory Lewis’s Distinctive Approach to Portraiture (Cover of Heir Captured By Rory Lewis)

Known for my distinctive portrait style, I specialize in creating images that resonate deeply with the subject’s story. For this particular portrait, my goal was to convey Monson's personal journey—the tension between his aristocratic upbringing and the profound tragedies he has faced. I opted for a simple, yet evocative setup, focusing on bringing out his quiet strength and contemplative nature, while staying true to my style that captures the sitter in a neutral, yet deeply reflective state.

Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to work with a diverse range of clients, from Hollywood stars to Wall Street CEOs and even royalty. Having captured the likes of former Prime Ministers Tony Blair and John Major, I’ve learned that each portrait is an opportunity to tell a unique story. Lord Monson’s portrait was no exception. By employing my method of creating imaginative scenarios and offering precise direction, I encouraged Monson to be authentic, capturing him in a moment of candid introspection that complements the weighty narrative of his memoir.

This project follows a tradition of distinguished work, with past collaborations including major brands such as JP Morgan and Lloyds Banking Group. Whether I’m working out of my Los Angeles studio, my New York base, or my London location, my goal remains the same—to create thought-provoking, timeless portraits that reflect the essence of the individual.

Lord Monson’s memoir is set to offer a unique perspective on aristocracy, personal loss, and resilience. It stands in contrast to the current wave of autobiographical works, including that of Prince Harry, offering instead a reflection on tragedy that’s intertwined with a certain acceptance of life’s unfolding.

As I continue to develop my portfolio, projects like this one remind me of the power that photography holds to document history and personal stories in a visually compelling way. I look forward to sharing this and many more portraits that contribute to the rich tapestry of modern storytelling.