“Stewart’s calm demeanor and the ease with which he was able to explain everything, even though I did not speak a word of English, was mesmerizing. There is just this calm energy about him that few people possess.”
– Alessandra Ambrosio

Stewart Shining was born in Burlington, Vermont, and grew up in Rapid City, South Dakota. He knew from the age of 14 that he would become a fashion photographer. In 1982 Stewart moved to New York City to attend Parsons School of Design and assisted the renowned photographers Michel Comte, Bill King, and Bruce Weber.

By 1992 Stewart had set up his studio and began shooting regularly for all of the Condé Nast publications including Vogue, Vanity Fair, GQ, W, Glamour, and Self. He became one of the few photographers granted a cover contract with Condé Nast, photographing countless covers for those publications and others, including Rolling Stone. In the next decade, he also shot regularly for two other significant clients: Victoria’s Secret and The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. This established his reputation as a leading photographer in that genre.

As magazines and advertisers began transitioning from photographing models to celebrities, Stewart quickly earned their trust for his unique vision. He became the favorite photographer of countless actors, musicians and other high-profile personalities.

In 2016, having spent his entire career in New York City but often on location in Los Angeles, Stewart decided to switch coasts but continues to maintain an office in New York City. He now lives and works in Los Angeles, continuing his tradition of shooting top models and celebrities.

Stewart serves on the Board of Directors of the Robert Mapplethorpe Foundation since 2001. Additionally, he has served as the president of ACRIA (formerly AIDS Community Research Initiative of America) the non-profit and community-based HIV/AIDS service organization.