Meet Michael Rowe, the Jamaican-Born Photographer Behind Iconic Celebrity Portraits
Celebrity photographer, Michael Rowe has immortalised the likenesses of numerous high-profile figures—from stars of the Hollywood Blockbuster movie Black Panther to actors from The Color Purple. His keen eye for detail and unique ability to capture the essence of his subjects have made him a sought-after photographer in the world of entertainment and beyond.
Born in Kingston, Jamaica, Rowe lived there until the age of seven before his family relocated to St. Elizabeth. At 15, they migrated to Albany, New York, a city starkly different from the warm climes of the island.
Capturing Hollywood
After completing his studies at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City and earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography and Art History from Syracuse University, Michael moved to California, a hub for creatives and entertainers alike. It was in Los Angeles that he began to make a name for himself, establishing a photography business that quickly gained recognition.
Over the years, he has photographed some of the most iconic figures in entertainment and politics, including Vice President Kamala Harris, actress Sheryl Lee Ralph, Angela Bassett, and rock star Lenny Kravitz. His work is characterised by its striking clarity, emotional depth, and a sense of intimacy that resonates with viewers.
An impressive roster of clients
With an impressive client roster that includes Amazon, Netflix, Essence, Ebony, BuzzFeed, and TLC, Rowe’s work has been featured in esteemed publications such as People Magazine and The Wall Street Journal. Balancing his time between New York City and Los Angeles, Michael Rowe continues to push the boundaries of visual storytelling, leaving a lasting impact on the industry.