Who Is David Bailey? Age, Biography and Wiki
David Bailey was born on January 2, 1938, making him 87 years old in 2025. As one of the leading figures in the field of photography, Bailey is renowned for his impactful portrait work and contributions to the fashion industry. His career, which began in the early 1960s, has spanned over six decades, capturing the essence of numerous celebrities and influential personalities. His unique style and creative vision have solidified his status as a legend in the world of photography.
| Occupation | Photographers |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | January 2, 1938 |
| Age | 87 Years |
| Birth Place | Leytonstone, Essex, England |
| Horoscope | Capricorn |
| Country | England |
Popularity
David Bailey's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
David Bailey stands at an estimated height of 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm). Throughout his life, he has maintained a healthy lifestyle, although specific weight details are less publicized. His robust health and active lifestyle contribute to his enduring creativity and passion for photography.
In 1972, rock singer Alice Cooper was photographed by Bailey for Vogue magazine, almost naked apart from a snake. Cooper used Bailey the following year to shoot for the group's chart topping Billion Dollar Babies album.
The shoot included a baby wearing shocking eye makeup and, supposedly, one billion dollars in cash requiring the shoot to be under armed guard. In 1976, Bailey published Ritz Newspaper together with David Litchfield. In 1985, Bailey was photographing stars at the Live Aid concert at Wembley Stadium.
As he recalled later: "The atmosphere on the day was great. At one point I got a tap on my shoulder and spun round. Suddenly there was a big tongue down my throat! It was Freddie Mercury."
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
As of 2025, David Bailey's personal life has been marked by notable relationships. He was previously married to his longtime partner, Catherine Dyer, and has experienced multiple relationships throughout his life. His current relationship status remains somewhat private, but he is often seen in the company of close friends within the arts community. Bailey has children from previous relationships, reflecting a rich family life intertwined with his artistic career.
At Vogue Bailey was shooting covers within months, and, at the height of his productivity, he shot 800 pages of Vogue editorial in one year. Penelope Tree, a former girlfriend, described him as "the king lion on the Savannah: incredibly attractive, with a dangerous vibe. He was the electricity, the brightest, most powerful, most talented, most energetic force at the magazine".
Net Worth and Salary
David Bailey's net worth in 2025 is estimated to be around $10 million. This wealth is largely attributed to his successful photography career, high-profile marketing deals, and art exhibitions worldwide. As a celebrated artist, Bailey’s work commands significant investment, making him one of the more financially secure figures in photography.
Career, Business and Investments
Bailey's career skyrocketed in the 1960s, notably as a photographer for British Vogue. His dynamic portraits have included famous names like The Beatles, Rolling Stones, and many more. Besides photography, Bailey has expanded his horizons into filmmaking and authoring several books. He has engaged in various business ventures such as art galleries and currently owns a media company that focuses on contemporary photography and visual storytelling.
In recent years, he has invested in several art initiatives and community programs aimed at nurturing young talent in photography, displaying his commitment to encouraging new generations of artists.
He was demobbed in August 1958, and determined to pursue a career in photography, he bought a Canon rangefinder camera. Unable to obtain a place at the London College of Printing because of his school record, he became a second assistant to David Ollins, in Charlotte Mews. He earned £3 10s (£3.50) a week, and acted as studio dogsbody.
He was delighted to be called to an interview with photographer John French.
Social Network
David Bailey is active on various social media platforms, where he shares his works and personal insights. While he maintains a relatively low profile compared to younger celebrities, Bailey's presence on Instagram allows fans to glimpse into his photography processes and personal moments. His followers appreciate his artistic vision as well as his candid thoughts on life and creativity.
In one school year, he claims he only attended 33 times. He left school on his fifteenth birthday, to become a copy boy at the Fleet Street offices of the Yorkshire Post. He raced through a series of dead end jobs, before his call up for national service in 1956, serving with the Royal Air Force in Singapore in 1957.
The appropriation of his trumpet forced him to consider other creative outlets, and he bought a Rolleiflex camera.
Education
Bailey’s early education took place at the local primary school before attending the School of Arts. He has not only refined his skills through direct experiences in the field but also by learning from other renowned photographers and artists throughout his career. His education and interactions have significantly influenced his photographic techniques and artistic approach.
In conclusion, David Bailey remains an influential figure in the world of photography as of 2025. His intriguing life story, alongside his continuous passion for capturing compelling images, ensures that he remains a celebrated icon in both the art and celebrity spheres.
Bailey developed a love of natural history, and this led him into photography. As he had undiagnosed dyslexia, he experienced problems at school. He attended a private school, Clark's College in Ilford, where he says they taught him less than the more basic council school. As well as dyslexia he also has the motor skill disorder dyspraxia (developmental coordination disorder).
