As a member of a ranching family living in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, a young Jess Lee spent a lot of time roaming the outdoors with camera in hand. Later, his skills as a shooter were further honed during his service as a military reconnaissance photographer. Dividing the next 30 years between a career in the communications industry while handling outside photographic assignments, Jess transitioned in 1999 into the respected, full-time professional wildlife photographer he is today.
Based near Yellowstone Park and the magnificent Tetons, some might assume this photographer wouldn’t ever have to leave his backyard to find inspiring subject matter. He admits, “I may live in the beautiful Rockies with grizzlies and other big mammals but land does not have to include herds of buffalo or a tall, pointed mountain with snow on it to be pretty.” In search of the special, Jess keeps his cameras on the road (and off) devoting more than 200 days each year in the field photographing the beauty of nature.
Many of his impressive images have appeared in such notable publications as Paris Match,National Geographic, Wilderness, Sports Afield and Sierra Magazine. Between his work on two books and ongoing shooting assignments, Jess still finds time to share his expertise with others through workshops and tours.
On the ICF philosophy:
“I believe ICF represents an idea whose time has come.”
Coltman, Idaho
2006 Pro-Tour, Teamed with Los Madrones – Dripping Springs, Texas
