Russell Lee (1903–1986) was an American photographer renowned for his work with the Farm Security Administration (FSA) during the Great Depression. Born in Ottawa, Illinois, Lee initially pursued a career in chemical engineering, graduating from Lehigh University in 1925. However, his passion shifted to photography in the mid-1930s, leading him to document the lives of everyday Americans during one of the nation's most challenging periods.

In 1936, Lee joined the FSA's documentary project. Over six years he captured the resilience and struggles of rural and urban communities across 29 states. His work not only provided a poignant visual record of American life during the Depression but also played a crucial role in shaping the nation's understanding of its social landscape.

After his tenure with the FSA, Lee continued his photographic endeavours, documenting various aspects of American society. In 1947, he relocated to Austin, Texas, where he became the first instructor of photography at the University of Texas in 1965, influencing a new generation of photographers. Lee's extensive body of work remains a vital part of America's visual history, housed in numerous institutions, including the Library of Congress.