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Written by Roman Portnoy
Ryan West is a Canadian-American photographer and visual consultant. He specializes in celebrity portraits, documenting moments of beauty and emotion, while also providing work for television appearances.
Ryan was born in Vancouver, Canada. He was raised by his mother Ann Munger and his dad Tony West. Ryan is half-Indian from his birth dad Gurmeet Bal. His biracial background allowed him to unlock a unique perspective for his creative process and vison, especially in the depiction of South and East Asian subjects.
After finishing up his bachelor’s degree in business from Simon Fraser University, Ryan set his sights on photography. West first worked in finance, as well as being a DJ and music producer. That musical background gave him an opportunity to cross paths with some amazing people from the photo industry. In 2013, West made his first move, going east across the border to New York City. There, he met photographer Alexi Lubomirski. West briefly assisted Lubomirski and learned some tricks of the trade that would push him on an even greater adventure. Ryan’s time in NYC was temporary but very valuable. It gave him the confidence to move to Los Angeles to set up his very own studio in 2014. His first published editorial photograph was of the music band Foster the People.
West was quick to make a name for himself working with publications such as Harper’s Bazaar, Marie Claire, L’Officiel, Rolling Stone, and The New York Times. His professional career spans editorial, fashion, entertainment and advertising photography.
Ryan is known for his celebrity portraits. He uses incredible lighting to capture a diverse range of moods. From soft and sensual to edgy and dramatic, each portrait is unique and tailored for its clients. Some of his work has appeared in television shows such as ESPN’s 30 for 30, and The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. He also worked with major brands on several advertising campaigns such as YSL Beauty, Armani, Tommy Hilfiger and Bebe.
In recent years, West has gained momentum with his photos on the worldwide stage. In 2017, he worked with Olivia Munn on a cover for Marie Claire. His attention to details and client relations prove to be highlights of his work. Munn later worked with West on some charity work for the Humane Society to promote the benefits of adopting pets from shelters. In 2021, West worked with Harper’s Bazaar again on a cover shoot for television and movie producer Jojo Ryder. Ryder and West have continued to work together on multiple photoshoots.
West currently resides in Los Angeles, California, with his wife Anna and son Christian.
