Hi, I’m Leslie — a photographer, designer, coffee lover, mother, sister, daughter, and friend who believes in finding magic in the everyday and beauty in life’s quiet (with kids not so quiet), ordinary moments.
Leslie Madsen
Founder/Owner
Bird and Clay
Every piece of the story makes you who you are.
These are my pieces.
What Drives Me
My love for photography traces back to my childhood as a military kid, always on the move, always saying goodbye. Every place we lived carried its own rhythm, its own light—and I learned early that time was precious. We arrived knowing we’d leave in three years, so I tried to hold on to everything that made each place feel like home. The only things we could truly keep were the memories and the photos we took with us. Photography became my way of keeping the world close, of capturing the pieces I never wanted to lose. Even now, with every image I make, I’m chasing that same feeling—of belonging, of wonder, of holding time just a little longer.
My Inspiration
The quiet, ordinary moments of now—the ones we often overlook but someday long to remember—are where my inspiration begins. I’m drawn to the feeling of home and the meaningful things we choose to surround ourselves with, the pieces that help us feel connected, steady, and rooted. Those small, lived-in moments and the spaces that hold them are at the heart of everything I create.
Home, Guided by Love
My life is surrounded by my closest family, both given and chosen, but right now my world is most guided by motherhood. I am a boy mama to two incredible little humans who keep me busy from before the sun rises to long after it sets. I am endlessly infatuated with giving them the best childhood, and I find myself shedding both happy and bittersweet tears at every milestone as they leave each younger version of themselves behind.
The Gear
I’ve always believed great photos come from creativity and connection — though I’ll admit, I geek out over gear. There’s something thrilling about finding the right tools to bring a vision to life. Here’s a peek at what I use and love:
Camera Bodies: I’m a Canon loyalist, a connection that started with my first camera and even ties back to my granddad’s Canon overseas. Today I shoot with a Canon 5D Mark III (and a Canon 5D) and for film, I love the Pentax 67, Canon F-1, and Canon AF. The mix of digital precision and film’s timeless character keeps things exciting.
Lenses: I’m mostly a prime lens fan — they bring clarity, character, and the challenge I enjoy. My go-tos are a 35mm for environmental shots, 50mm for real-life moments, and 85mm for portraits. And yes, I even experiment with phone lens attachments — creativity isn’t limited to the camera bag.
Studio Setup: From seamless backdrops to studio lighting, I love shaping light and mood to make every image intentional. I’m always testing new setups and fine-tuning gear; every piece in my bag has earned its place.
Photography for me is equal parts art, connection, and a little bit of obsession — the perfect blend to bring each vision to life.