Photographer, director and judge on “America’s Next Top Model,” Nigel Barker has now written a book, Nigel Barker’s Beauty Equation. He offers his own unique perspective, as well as a global viewpoint for readers.

There are so many books written about beauty that you may think, “How can we stomach another book about beauty?” They try to jump on our insecurities and show us how we can “improve” our flaws and be more appealing. Well, this book is not like any other in its genre. Yes, it’s full of tips on fashion, style, hair and makeup, but there is a twist. Barker entices the readers to actually participate in their own transformation.

“I want you to discover your own true beauty, through your own eyes,” he assures.

Being a husband and a father pushed him to want to write a book about both inner and outer beauty. He is of mixed heritage – British and Sri Lankan descent – married to a Chinese-American wife living in New York City, an amazing melting pot.

Barker reflects, “Working in the fashion industry and having lived all over the world, now with two children, positions me uniquely to discuss beauty from a refreshing perspective.”

This book opens up a dialogue about what true beauty really is and can be. “The book is both funny and serious, and how you can obtain true beauty without a nip or tuck,” says Barker.

“Whether shooting a celebrity, a model or in an unconventional setting like an HIV clinic in Tanzania, I always look for the human story,” Barker explains. “I wanted to write Beauty Equation and turn it into a work book, where the reader can actually take the self-portrait and concentrate on what they are feeling or conveying in each image. It’s therapeutic, but can be a lot of fun also.”

Nigel Barker’s Beauty Equation allows the reader to go on a journey of self-discovery. They may see themselves in a certain light or think a particular way about themselves. Once they actually see what others see, they can decide if that is what they want to actually convey. As Barker says, “The camera never lies!”

Barker is also more than just a photographer in the fast world of fashion, he’s also a director who has been embarking on humanitarian trips around the world.

“I wholeheartedly believe in the mantra that action speaks louder than words,” claims Barker.

Rather than just simply being a celebrity, he found a way to make it count by getting images from around the world of pressing issues and making sure that they are seen.

“By using my ability as a storyteller through imagery, I hoped to be able to motivate people to do the right thing or at least educate them on the issues,” reflects Barker genuinely.

Through his travels, Barker believes, “I have seen the best and worst of people and really gotten to know myself a lot better. I simply want to share what I know.

You will see so much of his worldview about what beauty truly is in his new book. Nothing is off limits.

Nigel Barker’s Beauty Equation gives you a step-by-step process, which challenges the reader to constantly be an active participant. With tips from beauty and fashion experts as well as celebrities, you gain the knowledge to feel your inner and outer beauty. You will throw away conventional ideas of beauty and celebrate your uniqueness. You see all shapes and sizes and ethnic backgrounds in the book, leaving no one feeling left out of the equation of beauty.



Nigel Barker signs his book Sept. 19 at 2 p.m. at the Grove Barnes & Noble and Sept. 21 at 7 p.m. at Westfield Mall Century City Borders. For more information, visit beautyequation.com.