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How Nigel Barker Moved from Model to Image Maker

By Cator Sparks Published August 6, 2021

This week we chat with Nigel Barker, former model turned photographer, on his career and personal style.

I started my career right out of high school almost unwittingly when I entered a televised modeling competition in the late 1980’s. After seven years as a model, traveling internationally and working with some of the greatest photographers in the world, I made the transition from one side of the lens to the other, moving to New York City in 1996 and opening Studio NB.

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After a lot of hard work and a few lucky breaks I had my first gallery exhibition in New York, which led to my first big editorial story in Paper Magazine, followed by Interview Magazine, and the rest is history. Or rather I was lucky enough to create history with Tyra Banks on her show America’s Next Top Model. What started as a one episode gig ended up being a decade long escapade lasting 17 seasons and a hit show syndicated in over a 100 countries.

Next, I hosted The Face alongside Naomi Campbell, followed by my new show Top Photographer on YouTube/AdoramaTV. All this has enabled me to broaden my horizons with my own furniture line called the NB1 Collection at Art Van Furniture and books including my The New York Times best seller “Models Of Influence” as well as my new position as Artistic Director of the hip menswear line Flag & Anthem.

Obviously my greatest achievements are my marriage of 17 years to Crissy AKA @ChinTwins and my two children: Jack, 11 and Jasmine, 8.

As for my personal style:

Jeans: The Westborough from Flag & Anthem
Shirts: Classic white or blue button down collar shirts
Underwear: Second Skin boxers by Tommy John
Suits: At 6’4” I need bespoke suits and my favorites are tailored by Duncan Quinn
Shoes: Converse Chuck Taylor High Tops
Accessories: Shinola black Blizzard watch
Outerwear: Christiansburg Puffer from Flag & Anthem
Favorite cologne: Eau Natural AKA nothing
Favorite app: Camera +
Favorite piece of technology: Canon 5D Mark IV
Next style/gear purchase: Drone

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Cator Sparks was the Editor-in-Chief of The Manual from its launch in 2012 until 2018. Previously, Cator was covering…

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