If you've ever shouted “Shabang!” in a photo studio, chances are you've felt the ripple effect of Peter Hurley—a photographer who went from modeling in front of the lens to becoming one of the most recognized headshot photographers in the world.
Peter’s journey into photography began in 2000, after years of modeling and acting (with a side of bartending). “A photographer told me I should try shooting, and I fell in love with it,” he says. Two decades later, he's the founder of Headshot Crew, a global coaching platform with over 1,000 active members, and a Canon Explorer of Light—one of the highest honors for professional photographers. He’s published The Headshot, spoken at major conferences, and built a loyal community of photographers who now carry on his legacy (and catchphrase: Shabang!) across the globe.
A Long Love Affair with Matthews
Peter’s relationship with Matthews Studio Equipment goes way back. “I've been using their products like Apple boxes, scrims, arms and stuff like that since I started photography,” he says. While early on it was mostly grip gear, it wasn’t until a chance encounter at Imaging USA in Dallas that his love for Matthews stands really took off.
“I hated the stands I was using,” Peter recalls. “Then Martin brought over one of the Matthews stands and I said, ‘Oh my gosh, I need these.’” That moment sparked a new chapter—one defined by portability, reliability, and sleek engineering.
Why Peter’s All About the Reverse and Light Duty Kit Stands
As someone who travels constantly between his bicoastal studios and live events, Peter needed lightweight, compact gear that wouldn’t sacrifice strength. Matthews’ Reverse Stand (PN: B387486) and Light Duty Kit Stand (PN: B389787) fit the bill perfectly.
- Light Duty Kit Stand: Extends up to 82", holds up to 17 lbs, yet weighs just 3 lbs. “It’s perfect for travel and performs incredibly,” says Peter.
- Reverse Stand: Slightly taller at 89" and packs down even smaller, giving Peter more reach with minimal space taken.
“It’s a science thing,” he says. “The components, the build quality—it’s really amazing. The footprint, the weight, everything just works really well.”
He also regularly uses Matthews scrim frames, artificial silks, apple boxes, grip heads, arms, and classic black C-stands to control and shape light precisely the way his portraiture demands.
Headshot Crew Contest with a Matthews Twist
Last month, Peter ran a special edition of his monthly Headshot Crew photo contest, where over 70 photographers submitted their best work. The prize? A Matthews Light Duty Kit Stand — sponsored by yours truly. “People were really psyched,” Peter says. “These contests are a way to give back to the community and introduce them to tools I genuinely believe in.
What’s Next?
Peter continues to mentor thousands through the Headshot Crew, leads epic events like Headshot Mania, and gears up for a big showing at the BILD Expo with B&H. He’ll be leading crash courses, coaching sessions, and of course—shooting headshots with his trusted Matthews gear in tow.
From the streets of NYC to studios worldwide, Peter Hurley’s career is a masterclass in reinvention, passion, and the right gear at your side. And when he yells Shabang!—we’re proud to know that behind that energy is a Matthews stand doing its part to support greatness.
Hurley Headshot for Forbes Magazine
