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Peter Hurley Photography Peter is a New York City and Los Angeles based photographer specializing in advertising and commercial work, including portraiture, fashion, beauty, editorial, actor's headshots, events and corporate photography.
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That's it in a nutshell and it is my life's work. When you don't find me with a camera in my hand then you will be sure to see me crusin around on a Laser somewhere in the world or spending as much time as I possibly can with my beautiful wife and precious twin daughters. Below are some of my favorite clients I have been lucky enough to work with over the years.
Our corporate headshots and business portraits are shot to convey a subtle confidence with a hint of approachability to the expression. Your business presence is more important than ever and every professional needs a captivating image to support their brand. Together we'll team up to create a professional look that captures you at your best.
Peter teaches his approach to headshot photography on a variety of platforms online and through in-person workshops. Check out some of the resources below to start taking your headshot business to the next level. The Headshot Intensive is Peter Hurley's signature workshop that he has developed and is rooted in the teachings in his book The Headshot, which encompasses his unique process that continues to evolve. In this two day immersive workshop, you'll learn the in's and out's of Peter's workflow, direction, shooting style and business sense.
Reviews (26)
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Chase Rossman
Feb 19, 2022
Peter Hurley is a world class teacher that knows how to help a photographer get better on every single level! Lighting, gear, business but most of all people!
SingSmart ActSmart
Oct 23, 2021
Best photography studio I've ever been to! Great location and space. But beyond having all the extras like plenty of hangers, mirrors, lotion to reduce shine, the real star is the quality and care that Peter brings to your shoot. I've never had so much fun getting my headshots taken. Peter makes you feel comfortable and patiently teaches you things you can control to project the best "you" into his camera.

My friends and colleagues are so impressed with the number of usable shots I've received. It was nearly impossible to settle upon the top ones because so many were perfect. Go see Peter if you want the best pictures you've ever had taken!
Angel Desai
Oct 20, 2021
I had so much fun with each shoot I've done with Peter (3rd one, 2 headshot sessions and a contributor to his Hold The Sub tutorial). To me, he's classic NYC - smart, sharp, fast, sure-handed, both decisive and open to possibilities. Relaxed yet driven. And we made each other laugh, which is the best. Oh, and did I mention the shots look amazing? Plus, his super-on-top-of things associate Britney, who does her own great shots - SO helpful and chill. Thanks for a great session, you two!
Teja Rao
Sep 25, 2021
Had my first headshot session ever with Peter today and it's easy to see why he's the MASTER of the headshot game. He's funny, extremely talented and incredible at his job, Yes he's pricey but if you want the best in the world and are serious about your career then go with him. As many others have said there are TOO MANY good photos to choose from but whatever headshots you decide go with, you'll look amazing nontheless and he instills a lot of self confidence in you even if you feel you aren't photogenic or look good in front of the camera. In short, he could make a potato look handsome with his skills.
Isabelle A.
Aug 12, 2021
Peter is extremely talented. The best. Totally worth the investment. This was my second session 5 years apart. I would recommend him to anyone who wants incredible headshots - so many great ones it's even difficult to chose from
Marc Sinoway
May 28, 2021
Peter is a pro. A true artist. Peter creates a comfortable, warm & collaborative environment that makes it easy for an actor to drop their guard. The result: unique authentic shots. Peter's enthusiasm and love for his work is contagious. Working with Peter was such a wonderful experience and I am thrilled with his work. Moreover, Peter is a very generous human being. I look forward to working with him in the future.
Chris G.
Apr 13, 2021
Peter has photographed me a couple of times, and I think he is the best in the world. The first time he photographed me, for the first time in my life I thought I was good looking. Great guy.
Marina Pires
Mar 26, 2021
Peter Hurley is an absolute pro with an incredible soul. I've worked professionally as an actress in NYC & regionally for over 10 years, and I've had to live with headshots for years that either didn't look like me or trapped me in a "type" box. Peter cultivates a studio environment that allows room for play and creativity to flow. He's a true artist who managed to capture me in my truest, most honest form. So grateful & excited to show these to casting & to get back in the game better represented than ever. Thanks Peter!
Haythem Noor
Feb 19, 2021
When genius collides with the art of photography you get Peter Hurley. The best headshot decision I've ever made. Peter is such a wonderful guy, an absolute professional and his work is stunning. The studio is in the heart of Chelsea and very accessible. Spacious studio and well equipped. Peter's ability to scan your face and chose the correct light degree is a matchless talent. I had a blast getting my headshots taken by Peter and truly appreciated how easy he is to work with.
Ellen Mah
Feb 05, 2021
Working with Peter is an amazing experience. He's an incredible photographer and takes photos that make you look your best. Hes also great at directing you and helps you get that shot that will get you casted. He keeps an eye on your hair so it's not a mess. It's so much fun and you are enjoying every moment when you're wrking with him. I would definitely recommend my friends to shoot with him!
Cinthya Orrala
Dec 21, 2020
I had the privilege of having gifted professional photographer, Peter Hurley take my headshot. I am so happy with his work and the final product. He is the ultimate professional and made the photo session fun. He was very effective in capturing my professional look. He kindness comes through in his interactions with subjects as he really takes the time and interest in making them feel comfortable in order to get the best photos.

I want to thank his team since they helped with the lighting and setting up the photo shoot so that everything was executed seamlessly. I highly recommend him as his excellent creative work continues to earn him accolades such as being voted "The Best Headshot Photographer in New York City by Backstage Magazine several years in a row." Your professional image/brand will be in great hands.
Haas Manning
Jun 08, 2020
Peter Hurley's meticulous eye is trained for perfection. Shot after shot, his professionalism shined through. I questioned the awkward angles I held for a shot but was COMPLETELY surprised when I saw what felt awkward was sheer brilliance! I finally let go as I gained trust in Peter, whom was so patient with me. I had a blast! My agent is excited with my new shots.

Even more, I'm excited with them. We are seriously having a hard time choosing our top picks. Peter, you are the real deal, buddy. Thanks for your infectious energy and expertise!
Julie Rosenberg
Sep 27, 2019
I was very happy with the photos that Peter took of me for advertising and for media events. There are few photographers as adept at head shots. He also works closely with an on site makeup artist which makes a big difference in capturing the essence of an individual. Highly recommend.
Art A.
Jan 03, 2017
Superb headshot photographer and amazing teacher, critic and motivator. Check out his book on Amazon and his videos on Youtube. Headshot photography is complex. You have to get the technology right, and the lighting, and the clothing, and the pose and then spark just the right expression in your subject and capture that moment in camera. Artistic skill + technological skill + people skill. Peter is a rare master at this.

Just check out his web site, or the photographs in his book. He is particularly strong at the aspects that are the most difficult to master, such as getting subjects to generate natural expressions with emotional "juice" for the photograph. And the pose! Peter is also a pleasure to work with. He takes away the anxiety of the situation the moment you enter his studio.

I have personally taken some of Peter's classes and seen him craft headshots in his studio. He often turns out shots that look like magic. Peter's pricing is on the higher end because he is a "name" in the field and he produces amazing results. Famous people go to Peter for headshots or other types of portrait photography. If you like his style but find that the price is hard to justify, consider his associate photographers, whom he personally trained and work at lower price points. I highly recommend Peter Hurley as a photographer and a mentor. He is the best.
Stephanie M.
Aug 14, 2016
You would think that after charging exorbitant premium top dollar prices just to take your picture with a small canon camera that they would give you the high-resolution version of your pics. You paid top-dollar for the shoot, so why not, right? No. Instead, they give you the LOW resolution 72dpi versions which are useless for factory prints such as brochures and magazines.

If you want to get the high-resolution version, they make you pay a kick back to some graphic artist for $45 per pic (yes. PER pic) for retouching, EVEN if your pic doesn't even need retouching. What a ripoff. $45 per PIC?!? Are you kidding me?!? And the graphic artist isn't even in-house; he's at a completely different address and business.

They get all of that money from you, but gotta play GAMES to hustle you for MORE money, but yet, they can't even have the graphic artist right there in the studio. What a bunch of overrated bumbs and hustlers. This place is cleary overhyped and overrated because once you're in the shoot, you quickly realize that the service and the quality is average at best. They're located in a rinky-dink building on 26th st.

The building is so narrow and run-down that I bet one shoot pays for his entire month's rent. There was nothing that blew me away or made me feel like I was getting premium service. I was lured in by the marketing. That's why they say, if it sounds too good to be true, then it's probably not good at all. Looking at my pics, I realize I could have gotten these shots done on craigslist for much less AND got the high resolution pics, or I could have done these shots myself on my samsung phone with a tripod and two large lights.

I would have gotten the SAME quality of photos, but without forking over a fortune only to be thoroughly dissapointed. Unless you enjoy throwing away your money for nothing, then don't waste your time with this place. It's an overratted overhyped ripoff.
Jason D.
Apr 16, 2015
I shot with Peter in NY back in 2005 and again today (almost exactly ten yrs later!) The first round of shots in 2005 were the best shots I had ever had and until we shot again they still were. He's so much fun, extremely talented, and worth every penny! Just do it! You won't regret it. I'm so glad he shoots in LA too!
Emilio P.
Jan 17, 2015
SHABANG! Simply amazing. Peter was recommended to me and my daughter (the client) by a photographer in our home state of Colorado. He put it this way; best way to get her noticed is to expand her resume with as many good photographs, and as many different photographers as you can. And, if you can manage it financially, work with Peter Hurley. I checked him out and decided to do it.

We flew to New York within two months and had Peter work with my daughter for a set of head shots. Best decision we made, great experience for her, and absolutely gorgeous photos to headline her portfolio. I've read this in other reviews, but I couldn't emphasize it enough so you understand the man that is Peter Hurley. He is a professional, but very engaging and easy-going.

He makes you feel comfortable and at home in his studio, so much so, that you feel like he's an old friend you've gone to visit and are going to miss when you leave. We will go back for more sessions with Peter. Many thanks to the rest of Peter's team, Francisco (hair and make-up) and Jessica (Executive Assistant), who were awesome in getting her ready for her shoot, and extremely helpful and attentive with getitng our appointment set up so quickly.

We couldn't have asked for a more enjoyable experience. Top notch and worth the extra money. "You get what you pay for" Truer words were never spoken. Thanks Peter, Jessica and Francisco
K. A.
Aug 18, 2014
I've been auditioning more now than EVER before and I attribute that to Mr. Hurley and his amazing ability. He not only manages to get you to laugh and relax at his silliness - he gets the shots you want. His staff is the most PROFESSIONAL team I have ever been blessed to work with. I truly cannot praise this man enough. He truly is worth every single penny he charges.
Elle Z.
Aug 01, 2013
You don't have to have any previous posing knowledge before you go to see Peter. He will take you through whatever you need to know, and he has lots of zany tricks to get the best shots out of you. His method is mad, but it works. He is kind and funny, so the shoot is painless and even fun! Headshot baggage be gone! Also, Francisco, his make-up artist will make you look amazing!

I walked in looking like a wet rat, and he had me feeling gorgeous (but still like my self) in no time! His assistant Ashley is awesome as well. Next time I need HS I will look forward to going back to Peter and his team!
Areshia M.
Mar 24, 2013
I am an actress and comedian living in New York. This was my second time shooting with Peter. He is the absolute best in the business. Peter captures the essence of who you are. With him, it's not about being a model or being glamourous. It's about bringing out the best YOU. You get what you pay for in this business. My headshot is often the first time an agent or casting director gets to see me.

I want to always put forth my best look, and Peter makes that possible. Peter makes me feel confident, comfortable and most of all valuable. He takes his time, and he gives his honest opinion. If you want to make sure you get the best. Get Peter Hurley. I am an actress, but, not paid for this endorsement. I just love him! And you will too!
Rick B.
Oct 05, 2012
Peter Hurley is unique, hysterically funny, big hearted and simply the best at what he does. I was no easy subject, but he still found a way to make me look like a rock star. His techniques are refreshingly unorthodox and if you are willing to let him do his thing, you will learn first hand why he is so well regarded Worth the investment and then some.
Veronica S.
Sep 22, 2012
I went to Peter to have a corporate headshot taken. I cannot say enough about how great he was! I am not an actor and definitely not comfortable in front of the camera. He was wonderful in making me feel at ease and getting the right shot. He is just a really nice guy in addition to being an incredibly talented photographer. The photos turned out amazing.

He really took the time to make sure we got a shot that really represented me and not just one that made me look good. It was a great experience with great results and I recommend Peter without reservation.
Jenny H.
Aug 02, 2012
Peter is by far the best photographer that I have ever worked with for head shots! He's zany, fun, down to earth, and knows how to get the best shot. He's the best of the best! I always wanted to go to him for head shots, but never had the funds. So while I attempted to go the easy route with the less expensive photographers. Nothing could compare to the quality of work I received from Peter as well as from his fabulous makeup artist.

Yes these photos are quite expensive, but when your paying for quality it can come at a price. If you are looking for quality work that is going to help you stand out, go to him!
Brian S.
Apr 12, 2011
The difference between Peter's work and the crap I'd been using for years is staggering. It made me realize how lousy my photos had been. I wanted to cry and cry and scream and yell and shave my head and cut the sleeves off my blazer. But I didn't because I have restraint. Peter is super friendly. I've used him three times now. It's like hanging out with a long-time buddy and having a great time - then he presents you with an invoice. I've used his photos in my books and press materials.

I just took a new round and I'll be damned if he didn't make me look all clever and sophisticated. Note to the ladies: As far as photographers go I know there are some lecherous cads out there. Peter is not one of them. He's all gentleman.
Melanie M.
Jul 20, 2010
I had been to a showing of Peter's work -- which was amazing and I was blown away -- and thrilled to learn that he also took on corporate clients. Having worked in PR for a while I had many varied experiences with photographers -- some of them not very good. Having Peter take pictures of our executives was the smartest thing I ever did -- not only are the pictures fabulous -- sometimes more fabulous than the subject -- but Peter also makes the process easy, fun and a lot less nerve racking than anyone else that I have worked with. He is endlessly patient. I cannot recommend him highly enough. Oh and did I mention how terrific the pictures are?
Christy Y.
Aug 22, 2008
Peter Hurley IS the best. He creates an environment that puts you totally at ease, is a pro with the camera, and he will get the best out of you. You will have a great time, and will have an even better time trying to pick one out. I literally have over 50 pictures that I would be great as my final headshot. His work is interesting, fresh, and will make you pop.

I don't plan to have my headshots done by anyone else again. He really is the best. Oh and also I drove 10 hours to have him do my headshots, and would drive even further if I had to again.