David Learman is an award-winning art photographer whose work explores vanishing landscapes, cultural traditions, and visual storytelling through long-term, immersive photographic projects.
David Learman is an award-winning art photographer whose career began in the early 1980s, documenting haute couture on some of Europe’s most iconic fashion runways. Over time, his focus shifted toward more contemplative subjects, and today his work is devoted to capturing vanishing landscapes, cultural traditions, and disappearing ways of life.
Driven by a deep passion for visual storytelling, Learman seeks to reveal the subtle nuances and hidden narratives embedded in both nature and human experience. His landscape and scenic photography is the result of extensive research and repeated visits to carefully chosen locations, allowing him to photograph each scene from the most evocative perspective and under ideal light conditions.
Learman’s projects are defined by their long-term, immersive approach. A notable example is his acclaimed Al Hejin series, created at the Al Sawan camel racing track in Ras Al Khaimah. Over a period of four years, he visited the track twice weekly. During the first six months, he deliberately worked without a camera, building relationships of trust within the camel racing community. This process enabled him to become an accepted and almost invisible presence, allowing for intimate photographs that convey the excitement, drama, and distinctive vitality of the sport from an insider’s perspective.
In 2023, Learman was one of seventy-four photographers worldwide invited to exhibit at Sharjah Xposure, where Al Hejin received critical acclaim.
Memberships & Awards
Member, Emirates Photographic Society
World Art Dubai – Best Photographer, 2024
Selected Exhibitions
2023
Al Hejin, Sharjah Xposure
2024
Al Hejin, World Art Dubai (Solo)
Al Hejin, Design Gallery, Ras Al Khaimah (Solo)
Summer Exhibition, Design Gallery, Ras Al Khaimah
Visual Stories, Majlis Gallery, Dubai (Solo)
Encounters, Design Gallery, Ras Al Khaimah (Solo)
National Day Exhibition, Mercedes-Benz Brand Hub, Dubai (Solo)
2025
Spring Exhibition, Design Gallery, Ras Al Khaimah
Heritage Days, RAK Museum
RAK Arts Festival
Emirates Photography Society Recognition Award, Sharjah Xposure
Contemplation, Mercedes-Benz Brand Hub, Dubai (Solo)
Interpretations, World Art Dubai (Solo)
Visual Rhythms, Design Gallery, Ras Al Khaimah
Lens, Noor Royal Gallery, Dubai
