About

Ben Watts is a British-born, New York-based photographer and filmmaker best known for his work in fashion, lifestyle, and celebrity portraiture. Born on January 19, 1967, in London, England, he comes from a creative family—his sister is the actress Naomi Watts. Ben began his career studying photography at the Sydney College of the Arts in Australia, where he honed his skills in visual storytelling and developed a unique approach to capturing images with a bold, vibrant, and often kinetic style.

In the early 1990s, Ben moved to New York City, where his career took off as he began working with some of the world’s most prestigious fashion and lifestyle publications, including Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Elle, Rolling Stone, and The New York Times Magazine. His work is notable for its use of dynamic lighting, colorful compositions, and candid expressions, capturing the essence of his subjects in an engaging and often playful way.

Ben Watts has collaborated with numerous high-profile clients and brands such as Nike, Polo Ralph Lauren, Gap, Apple, and Samsung, infusing their campaigns with his trademark energy and spontaneity. His celebrity portraiture includes work with icons like Kanye West, Scarlett Johansson, Heath Ledger, and Jay-Z, among many others. Ben’s style often emphasizes a raw, urban aesthetic, blending elements of street photography with high fashion, which has made his work highly sought after in both commercial and editorial contexts.

In addition to his photography, Watts has published books showcasing his work, including Big Up (2003), a photo essay capturing Caribbean culture, and Lickshot (2008), a scrapbook-style collection that includes personal photos, collages, and Polaroids. He has also ventured into short films and music videos, bringing his visual style to motion.

Known for his laid-back and adventurous personality, Ben Watts has established himself as an influential figure in the photography world, blending pop culture with a gritty, authentic edge. His work continues to inspire upcoming photographers, and his career remains a testament to his creative versatility and ability to capture the raw energy of his subjects.