Photographer 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 demonstration 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 natural-history photographer and writer to others through workshops, feature articles and civic presentations.  More than 5,000 of Bill’s images have been presented in an array of books, calendars, magazines, advertisements and other publications.  His work has appeared in Audubon calendars, Defenders magazine, Exploring the Smokies, National Geographic books, Nature Conservancy magazine, Outdoor Life, and many others.  Having his photographs appear on three covers in a row was a first in Field & Stream’s more than 100-year history.