Since childhood Rusty has been an avid explorer of the natural environment, which is the source of much of his inspiration. His interest in photography began while managing a working cattle ranch in East Texas and the need for informational and promotional images of the herd. He soon became passionate about making art through the photographic process and has traveled the world in its pursuit.

Rusty and his wife Ellen reside in the Texas Hill Country and often collaborate on a variety of endeavors. In addition to art, they have a sincere commitment to land stewardship and open space preservation. Rusty is currently the Chairman and President of Bamberger Ranch Preserve, an internationally acclaimed 501C-3 foundation whose mission is land conservation and public educational outreach.