Behind the Lens: Heroes in Focus

At Heroes in Focus Non Profit, we believe every portrait tells a story, and this blog takes you behind the scenes of our mission. Here we share glimpses from our portrait sessions, the press coverage that amplifies our work, and the journeys we take on location at military bases, academies, and historic sites. From candid moments in the studio to media features and fieldwork across the U.S., U.K., and beyond, this space reveals how we capture and preserve the courage, humanity, and legacy of those who serve.

RORY LEWIS 10/21/25 RORY LEWIS 10/21/25

Field Marshal Lord Houghton Portrait Acquired by The Green Howards Museum

The Green Howards Museum has officially acquired Rory Lewis’s portrait of Field Marshal The Lord Houghton of Richmond — a distinguished addition to its permanent collection, funded by the Heroes in Focus non-profit, which documents British, American, and Allied military personnel.

RORY LEWIS 10/10/25 RORY LEWIS 10/10/25

Behind the Lens: Field Marshal The Lord Houghton of Richmond

It was an honour to once again photograph Field Marshal The Lord Houghton of Richmond at my London studio — our second sitting, the first being in 2014 when he served as Chief of the Defence Staff. A decade on, now a Field Marshal, his portrait reflects a lifetime of leadership and service. Images coming soon as part of the ongoing Heroes in Focus series.

RORY LEWIS 10/6/25 RORY LEWIS 10/6/25

Behind the Lens: Capturing Field Marshal The Lord Richards of Herstmonceux

Behind the scenes with Field Marshal The Lord Richards of Herstmonceux — photographed for Heroes in Focus shortly after his appointment to five-star rank by His Majesty The King. The final portrait will be unveiled soon.

RORY LEWIS 9/17/25 RORY LEWIS 9/17/25

Field Marshal The Lord Guthrie (1938–2025)

Capturing Field Marshal The Lord Guthrie in 2017 was both an artistic milestone and a historic privilege. His presence before the camera embodied the authority, humility, and resolve that defined his decades of service. This portrait stands as a lasting record of one of Britain’s most consequential soldier-statesmen and reflects the mission of Heroes in Focus to preserve the legacies of those who lead and serve.

RORY LEWIS 9/3/25 RORY LEWIS 9/3/25

Prince Edward, Duke of Kent — Featured in Royalty Magazine

We are delighted to share that Royalty magazine has featured Rory Lewis’s portrait of His Royal Highness, The Duke of Kent, in their latest issue. This editorial shines a light on the Duke’s remarkable life of service and dedication, ensuring his story reaches a wide audience.

RORY LEWIS 3/13/24 RORY LEWIS 3/13/24

Behind the Lens: Honoring Leadership with Admiral Sir Tony Radakin

Behind the lights and backdrop, the session with Admiral Sir Tony Radakin became more than photography—it was a dialogue with history. The Royal Navy Ensign was carefully draped across the table, a bust of the Duke of Wellington placed as a reminder of past commanders, and the ceremonial baton of the Lord High Constable brought into the frame. Each element was positioned to weave together service, symbolism, and tradition. For me, one of the most memorable moments was holding the baton myself, feeling the weight of centuries of military heritage as we prepared the scene that would become Radakin’s final portrait.

RORY LEWIS 2/7/23 RORY LEWIS 2/7/23

Behind the Lens: Capturing the Leaders of the National Defense University

Behind the Lens at the National Defense University — Photographer Rory Lewis, with the support of his nonprofit Heroes in Focus, captures portraits of NDU leadership and explores the university’s historic archives, including the Special Collections featuring GEN Colin L. Powell, USA (Ret.). Discover the faces and legacy of America’s premier institution for educating joint warfighters and national security leaders.

RORY LEWIS 6/18/21 RORY LEWIS 6/18/21

Behind the Lens: Photographing the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment

In June 2021, photographer Rory Lewis returned to Knightsbridge Barracks to capture the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment — documenting both tradition and change with some of the first female soldiers to join the unit. On the same day, Rory also photographed General Dame Sharon Nesmith, Britain’s highest-ranking female soldier. Together, these sittings preserved a powerful moment in military history: the blending of heritage with the progress of women at the very heart of the British Army

RORY LEWIS 9/27/18 RORY LEWIS 9/27/18

Behind the Lens with H.R.H The Duke of Kent

On September 27th, 2018, Rory Lewis photographed His Royal Highness The Duke of Kent in London, capturing a moment of quiet dignity and royal grace. The sitting offered a rare glimpse behind the lens at one of Britain’s most enduring figures — a man whose life of service and composure continues to reflect the steady heartbeat of the monarchy