Bill Lea

Capturing intimate images of wildlife, scenery, wildflowers, and a variety of other natural subjects in “just the right light” has long been the trademark of Bill Lea’s photography. He may best be known for his artistic documentation of deer and bear behavior, the various moods of the Great Smoky Mountains, and southern ecosystems. Photographing in the Smokies since 1975 has afforded this photographer limitless opportunities to observe and record the flora, fauna, and scenery of the region. Bill’s craft reflects his deep appreciation for nature and he communicates his enthusiasm and expertise as a natural history photographer and writer to others through his books, workshops, feature articles and civic presentations. He has been teaching photo workshops at Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont since 1992.

More than 7,000 of Bill’s photos have been presented in an array of books, calendars, magazines, advertisements and other publications. His work has appeared in Audubon Calendars, BBC Wildlife, Defenders of Wildlife, Exploring the Smokies, National Geographic books, Nature Conservancy, National Wildlife, and many others. His three front covers in a row was a first in Field & Stream’s more than one hundred year history. In 2005, Bill authored a coffee-table book titled Great Smoky Mountains Wildlife Portfolio and recently co-authored the Great Smoky Mountains Wonder and Light book. His newest book, Cades Cove – Window to a Secret World, was released in September 2007 and is already in its second printing. When asked what he would like most to achieve through his photography, Bill replies, "I hope my images will promote a better understanding and appreciation for wildlife, the natural world, and most of all, our Creator."

To see more of Bill's artistic work, visit his website, www.billlea.com.