David Stoecklein launched his photographic career taking lifestyle shots of skiing, fishing, hiking, and biking, landing assignments for companies such as Coca- Cola, Ski Magazine, L.L. Bean, Reebok, Timberland, and Scientific Angler. It was not long, however, before he turned his lens to his neighbors on the great ranches of the West. David's fascination with the ranching heritage of the American West led him to befriend, and subsequently photograph, the men and women still breathing life into the mythical figure of the cowboy. David's passion for preserving the traditions and beliefs of the country's honest, hard-working cowboys and cowgirls gradually earned him their respect. With that respect came an open invitation to share in their lives, and the great responsibility to honor their trust.