Photo: WENN

Rapper Kanye West has been charged with battery and attempted theft following an altercation with a photographer at an LA Airport in July.

Paparazzo snapper Daniel Ramos took legal action against the ‘Black Skinhead’ singer after he claimed the rapper punched him and threw his camera to the ground.

Kanye’s defence team claim the superstar was simply trying to stop Mr Ramos from taking his picture as he left the airport.

Kanye was spared the more serious felony charges because the alleged victim’s injuries were so minor.

But Mr Ramos insists the July 19 incident left him in “complete shock”.

A TMZ video shows the music icon visibly irritated by the photographer as he leaves the airport before he appears to lunge for his camera.

"When Kanye West attacked me, I was in complete shock," Mr Ramos said.

Kanye dodged felony charges as the injuries caused were so minor

“All I had done was ask him a question. I was terrified when Kanye started to come at me. I backed up because I felt from the look in his eyes that he was going to attack me.’

Mr Ramos also claims that he had to use crutches and a cane after the altercation.

The rapper’s arraignment has been set for October 10.

Below: Kanye West walks head first into a caution sign