Behind the Lens with Photographer and Director Peter Crosby

Step behind the lens and into the world of acclaimed Catskills-based photographer and director Peter Crosby — a visual storyteller whose work transforms fleeting moments into cinematic art. From rugged landscapes and quiet human connection to striking architecture and far-flung adventure, Peter’s photography and films blur the line between documentary and dreamscape.

His evocative imagery has appeared in iconic publications including The New York Times, Condé Nast Traveler, GQ, and Ralph Lauren Magazine, while his work has also been celebrated in cult-favorite coffee-table books like Cabin Porn and Accidentally Wes Anderson. Behind the camera, Peter has directed compelling brand films for powerhouse companies including Coinbase, Beyond Meat, Comcast, and Four Seasons, while his award-winning documentaries have earned recognition at film festivals and as coveted Vimeo Staff Picks.

In our exclusive “Behind the Lens” interview, Peter opens up about creativity, storytelling, inspiration, and the art of capturing emotion in a single frame.

INSIDE+OUT: Where are you originally from, and how did you wind up in the Hudson Valley?

Peter Crosby: I was born in London, raised in the Yorkshire Dales, moved to NYC in 2011, and found myself in the Catskills in the Summer of 2016 (and never left).

What inspired you to become a photographer and filmmaker? What was your journey?

Peter Crosby: I loved movies as a kid and always had a camera in my hand. When I was in my twenties, living in Barcelona, I made a short film about an Argentinian friend of mine who was about to become a Spanish citizen. I wanted to understand the gravity and emotion of that moment for him, so I made a short documentary, and that was the start of my career.

What do you love most about being a photographer?

Peter Crosby: How it opens doors to parts of the world most people don’t get to go through.

You play beautifully with light and shadow in your work, with an almost dream-like quality. Is this something you plan for, or does serendipity play a role in your work at times?

Peter Crosby: Timing is everything. I position myself to get the best opportunity for great light. It doesn’t always happen, but when it does, it feels magical.

As a photographer, what subjects inspire you personally? What do you like to shoot when you are not working with commercial clients?

Peter Crosby: My camera is a tool to remind me of the importance of observing the world around me. I use it as a reason to go outside and as an excuse to stay in one place longer than usual. The subjects I’m inspired by are everywhere – I just have to keep my eyes open.

What advice would you give to up-and-coming photographers?

Peter Crosby:  Always keep your camera with you. And get up early.

What makes living in the Hudson Valley special for you?

Peter Crosby:  I’ve lived in the Catskills for ten years, and in that time, I have spent time in most of its corners. I love knowing people in communities all over the area and using that as a way of knitting the region together.

Does living in the Catskills help or hinder access to commercial work?

Peter Crosby:  I have found a bit of both – you have to go out and put yourself into the community, which is not everyone’s favorite thing. Word of mouth has helped, but you have to remember there’s a big world out there beyond your own bubble and to keep one foot in that world.

What local businesses do you most frequent that people should know about?

Peter Crosby: The North Branch Cider Mill, and my Rondout favorites are Rosie General, Clove & Creek, Kingston Wine Co.

Tell us about the art scene in Upstate NY. Which galleries do you most frequent, and which artists inspire you the most?

Peter Crosby:  I like Dia Beacon, Art Omi, and in my town, the Catskill Art Space has really grown over the years.

Who or what inspires you personally?

Peter Crosby: Variety

Tell us about your work and share some of your favorite assignments.

Peter Crosby: I think the world around us can be epic, even in the smallest elements. I’m always looking to capture moments that remind me of that. One of my favorite assignments lately has been working with Ranchlands in Colorado and Wyoming. The epic scale of the scenery there is one thing. Still, I grew up with an image of the American West, and actually being able to experience real ranching in such vast surroundings is deeply satisfying.

What would you say to your younger self about life/work balance?

Peter Crosby: The old cliche about doing something you love.

Name your dream assignment.

Peter Crosby: I have two dream projects that I am working towards: I would like to do a full documentary about reforestation efforts in Central and South America, which I have started, but need funding to complete. And a film series about ranching, which we have just begun.

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

Peter Crosby: I would want to be able to levitate up to 30 feet, so I could get the perfect angle to shoot a house. No more than that, so I don’t get vertigo.

Photos by Peter Crosby

Follow + Connect with Peter Crosby

Website | Instagram | YouTube | Vimeo

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