Bob Charlo was born twenty miles from the Kalispel Indian Reservation, in the small town of Newport, located in the northeast corner of Washington State. The early years of his life were spent on the reservation with his mother and sisters. After being relocated to the Spokane area, he attended a variety of public schools. It was during these years that he became interested in art and did pencil drawings at every opportunity that he had. In 1977 he attended the Institute of American Indian Art in Santa Fe, New Mexico. It was there that he became interested in photography. In 1980, he graduated with an Associate of Fine Arts Degree in Photography and 2-D Design. After moving to the Seattle area, he attended the University of Washington concentrating on Art and American Indian Studies. Charlo graduated from University of Washington in 2004 with a Bachelor of Arts degree.

This award winning, internationally known photographer is best recognized for his images of American Indian dancers, regalia, and landscapes. When asked what kind of photographer he is, he responds with, "I'm a point and pray kind of photographer, I point the camera, take the picture, and pray that it comes out." He considers himself fortunate to have people react to some of his images with such honest feelings and warm complements. In his photograph he concentrates on capturing the essence of the moment, drawing upon his heritage as a means for artistic expression. His ancestral past is rich in tradition and art and this is how he goes about living his life today. His photographs have been well received for their artistic value as Fine Art Photography. His images now hang in museums, galleries, businesses and corporate collections as well as in both private and public collections. He states, "This accomplishment is not for myself, but for all American Indian People."

His statement on young people and education is as follows:
"I would like our young people to know, and never forget, who they are and what they represent. They should be proud of the fact that they are American Indian, and that they are our future. They should walk with direction and purpose and always have and set goals. I encourage them to stay in school and continue their education at any level. If they dare to pursue their dreams they will and can accomplish anything when they believe in themselves."