R G Lewis

R G Lewis cameras began above a chemist shop called RG Lewis, which first opened in Enfield, north London, in 1881. The chemist was run by Richard Lewis whose son, Norman, opened a photographic business above the shop and took the trading name of his father’s business. Norman Lewis began as a wedding photographer amongst other early business efforts but found his true and lifelong passion and success as a travel writer. Over his life Lewis would write nearly 40 fiction and nonfiction books, serve in intelligence during WWII and find himself documenting his extraordinary life and experiences in regional and troubled destinations. He wrote commentaries on the threats facing remote communities and the decimation of traditional tribal life due to Western influences. Lewis was also known for his alleged spying activities, being friends with James Bond creator Ian Fleming and his immersion in various political uprisings.

Norman Lewis' camera business thrived despite his continuous travels and the business R G Lewis became synonymous in London for small cameras, excellent service and knowledge and being a purveyor of the renown Leica brand. The final R G Lewis store closed in 2015 having been sold by Norman to Len Lyons in 1982.