Why Collect David Yarrow

David Yarrow (b. 1966) is one of the most compelling voices in contemporary photography. Originally from Scotland, he has redefined the field of fine art photography by blending the raw power of wildlife photojournalism with meticulously constructed cinematic vision. His iconic black-and-white images—emotive, dramatic, and technically perfect—have made their way into galleries, auction houses, and private collections around the world.

A Cinematic Approach to Photography

Yarrow doesn’t just photograph nature—he stages it. His images are visual narratives, set across remote landscapes and carefully constructed scenes, where humans and animals coexist in surreal balance. His Storytelling series moves from the American West to Siberia and Africa, capturing stories as powerful as any film, often accompanied by firsthand accounts of how they were made.

A standout example is The Wolves of Wall Street I (2019), a photograph inspired by Martin Scorsese’s cult film. Signed by Leonardo DiCaprio, shot in an abandoned office complex in California, and featuring real wolves, it has become one of Yarrow’s most famous and valuable works to date.

A Rising and Reliable Market

Yarrow is among the rare contemporary photographers to have established a well-structured secondary market. Over the last four years, his works have generated more than $125 million in global sales, with $15 million donated to charitable causes. In the last 36 months, his auctioned works sold on average 47% above their estimates. Pieces such as Wolf of Main Street II (+92%) and Dexter (2018) have delivered excellent returns for Maddox clients.

This market growth is driven by strong gallery representation, celebrity endorsement, and broad appeal across traditional and new collectors. Yarrow’s limited edition prints regularly appreciate in value thanks to their consistent demand and global reach.

A Deep Commitment to Charity

Beyond commercial success, Yarrow has made philanthropy a cornerstone of his practice. His works have raised over $15 million for organisations focused on conservation and healthcare. His Our Pride project supported NHS workers during the COVID-19 crisis, while Catwalk, developed with the Kevin Richardson Foundation, raised awareness and funds for lion conservation.

His collaborations with Pamela Anderson, Cara Delevingne, and Cindy Crawford have further enhanced his public profile and extended the cultural impact of his work.

What to Collect from Yarrow

For collectors, the most iconic and valuable pieces are found in the Storytelling and Natural World series. Works like The Siberians, 78 Degrees North, Once Upon a Time in the West, and The Wolves of Wall Street consistently perform well at auction and are highlights in top collections.

His photography books are also collector’s items in their own right. Storytelling alone has generated $40 million in sales and over $6 million in charitable contributions—underscoring the strong connection between Yarrow’s artistic mission and the broader public.

Institutional Recognition and Global Exhibitions

Since 2021, Yarrow has held major solo shows across London, Los Angeles, Switzerland, and beyond. Titles such as Storytelling, Changing Lives, and It’s a Wonderful World highlight his narrative depth and technical mastery. His works are increasingly featured in top-tier art fairs and private corporate collections, reinforcing his position as a leader in collectible photography.