Thomas Lee True West

I have earned my living by making photographs for more than 20 years, mostly for newspapers and magazines. I've authored a few coffee-table books and won my share of awards.

I believe 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. But we must trust the truth we feel.

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.

I've just published a book, Montana: Real Place, Real People. It celebrates the true and authentic people and places writer Al Kesselheim and I have come across in our travels through this wonderful state.

I give a motivational speech called, "Be Who You Is." It's about the authentic, genuine character that I've discovered and been inspired by over the last decade.

My favorite color is orange and I like canoeing, classical trumpet and Nordic skiing. I love farmers and ranchers, even though I grew up in Chicago and I'm allergic to pretty much everything with four legs.