Rare behind-the-scenes photographs owned by a driver on the set of the Harry Potter films could make £3,000 at auction.
The 224-shot archive was given to the chauffeur of one of the producers as a keepsake and thank you.
Taken by the Dutch-born stills photographer Jaap Buitendijk, the candid snaps offer a remarkable insight into one of the biggest film franchises of all time.
The photos go under the hammer at a dedicated Harry Potter sale at Hansons Auctioneers’ Derby saleroom on October 29, curated by its rare books division Rare Book Auctions.
Its expert, Jim Spencer, said: “Only a handful of these movie stills were presented to senior members of the production staff, and they rarely appear on the open market.
“They are a charming and intimate glimpse into the world of the famous film and sure to spark interest among the Potter fans around the world.”
The cast is pictured on set, relaxing and in make-up, while production secrets of the technically complex films are also laid bare.
They were taken on the set of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, shot over 18 months from February 2009 to June 2010, which Warner Brothers released as two films.
In it, Daniel Radcliffe played seven versions of himself in one of the most technically challenging sequences, using motion control and body doubles.
The sale also includes a paperback first edition of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stoneexpected to make up to £8,000.
Dated1997, it has all the hallmarks of a true first edition, namely a print line that reads “10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1”, with the author named as “Joanne Rowling” not JK.
Jim continued: “There are other trademark signs to look out for on a true first edition.
Flick to page 53 and you will see the “1 wand” appear twice on the list of “Other Equipment”. On the back cover philosopher’s is misspelled as philospher’s, and it reads Wizardry and Witchcraft (rather than Witchcraft and Wizardry). All of these are key things to look out for, if you have a tattered old copy under the bed,or like to scour charity shops hunting out bargains.”
The Harry Potter auction, presented by Lichfield-based Rare Book Auctions, starts at 2pm on October 29 at Hansons Auctioneers’ Etwall saleroom.
Auction Details
Auction: The Harry Potter Auction
Auction date: 29th October 2025 | 2pm
Location: Hansons Derbyshire Saleroom
Auction contact: [email protected]
Catalogue/bidding: www.hansonslive.co.uk | www.the-saleroom.com
