A successful picture is one in which the viewer sees themselves.

The more we see ourselves in other people and in other places, the more we will cherish those people and places.

Truth resonates character. Character resonates truth. When we perceive true character, that generates trust.

Done well, photography speaks universally and authentically, overcoming barriers of language and culture and trust. So I choose photography to share true character of people and places.

I want people to see themselves in the people and places I photograph.

I want people to realize we all have more in common than in conflict.

Time-Warner, Inc., National Geographic Society, New York Times Company, plus many others.

I have made my living as a photographer since 1990, mostly as a staff photographer at newspapers and magazines in the northern Rocky Mountains. In August 2011 I stepped out on my own as a commercial, editorial and fine art freelance photographer working for national and regional publications and corporate clients.

I have authored three coffee-table books of photography, most recently, http://www.thomasleephoto.com/#a=0&at=0&mi=2&pt=1&pi=10000&s=0&p=0Montana: Real Place, Real People, with essays by Alan Kesselheim.

I am represented by Gallatin River Gallery in Big Sky, Mont.

National and regional award for photojournalism and fine art photographs.