Nigel Barker is an internationally renowned photographer, creative director and entrepreneur who opened his New York studio in 1996. He served 17 seasons as photographer and judge on the hit TV show, America’s Next Top Model, which aired in over 140 countries, and hosted Oxygen Network’s modeling competition series, The Face, starring alongside Naomi Campbell. Barker also created the VH1 Reality show The Shot, his podcast The Shaken & Stirred Show is currently in production for its TV release. His latest hit show Top Photographer premiered to rave reviews and a second season is in the works.
Barker’s presence in the fashion and entertainment industry has resulted in an array of exciting projects including the creation of his own furniture line the NB1 & NB2 Collections, a skateboard collection with ShutNYC, three signature fragrances with Demeter, a unique custom NB Photobooth, the first ever specialty Gin & Tonic glass and many more innovative projects. He is also a Founder and partner in the NYC/LA gym, The DOGPOUND.
Barker has directed and produced films, documentaries, and commercials for Hollywood clients to international charitable organizations and was awarded the “Film Heals” Award for Humanitarianism at the 6th Annual Manhattan Film Festival for Dreams Are Not Forgotten. Using the power of photography and motion pictures he has been able to spread his humanitarian message to vast audiences through films, PSAs and traveling exhibitions. He has worked with several charitable organizations including the Special Olympics where he serves as a Champion Ambassador, The Humane Society of the United States, The Humane Society International, Make A Wish Foundation, The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric Aids Foundation (as a two-term board member), Jumpstart (where he serves as a board member), The Edeyo Foundation (board member), and the USO where he serves as a digital advisory committee member.
In 2024, Barker traveled with CARE to Sierra Leone – one of the 109 countries in which CARE works – and captured a stunning series of portraits and video interviews of inspiring women. Featuring the powerful words and imagery of women working alongside CARE, this curation anchors SHE LEADS THE WORLD—a multi-day campaign in celebration of International Women’s Day that honors the strength of global women leaders in their communities.
Drawing upon his 20+ years of experience in the fashion and beauty industries, he has two books—The Beauty Equation, published by Abrams, and his latest book, New York Times Best Seller Models of Influence published by Harper Collins. Nigel currently lives in Woodstock NY with his wife and renowned Yogi, Cristen AKA @ChinTwins and their two children Jack and Jasmine.