If you’ve ever watched America’s Next Top Model, or if you know much about the photography industry, you’re sure to know who Nigel Barker is. I had the pleasure of making his acquaintance last year at a private book signing I was invited to, hosted by Scott Shuptrine Interiors in Royal Oak, MI, and it turned out we had a lot in common!
Mr. Barker said that he frequently spends time in Northern Michigan, particularly Petoskey & Bay Harbor, which was so awesome since that’s where I was born and raised. We also discussed how much we both enjoy being outdoors and how much we care about protecting the environment and helping to preserve its natural beauty.
Unfortunately, this was the only photo I took with him (ah, the irony), but he was incredibly kind and seemed genuinely interested in the people he was meeting. Fun fact: He offered to squat to take this photo with me, because he is more than 6’5″ tall compared to my 5’6″ stature, although he pointed out that I would have been the perfect height for the petite cycle of ANTM. While I don’t personally think I am nearly tall enough to model, he did compliment my outfit, which was so awesome coming from someone who does fashion photography for a living!
You can order a copy of his eye opening book Models of Influence here, which talks about 50 of the most iconic models in the fashion world, how they left their mark on the industry, along with iconic photographs of each. Even if you’re only casually interested in fashion, modeling, or photography, this is a great book to brush up on arts & culture in the United States and beyond.
You have such a fun life!