About Tess
I document the lives and love stories of Central Texans—my community, my neighbors, my people. With your help, I create more than just posed photos: Together, we build your legacy with timeless, authentic, and emotion-driven storytelling.
Hiya! I’m Tess Leslie, an Austin-based photographer.
I love to work with ‘real’ people: the family who just moved in down the street, the couple I met at a local concert, the people who bring color to my world: You. I hope you can see yourself in my work.
I believe every moment is a building block of your legacy. These aren’t just photos — they’re snapshots frozen in time. They’re the pictures you will show to your friends and family for years to come. They’re the documentation of your impact that will outlive all of us.
My initials are a guiding principle for how I approach my work, my relationships, and myself: With Tender Loving Care.
Some Fun Facts About Me
I'm married to my best friend, Bryan.
Our golden retriever Martha is my other best friend.
I graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with degrees in journalism and anthropology.
We love to spend our free weekends hiking around Central Texas or planning our next adventure.
I desperately want to be a good plant mom. I buy plants as often as my husband buys vinyl—which is to say, a lot.
My favorite way to relax is to put on a good podcast and cook elaborate meals.
I love music and supporting local musicians. I still photograph live music and I am a founder of Womxn In Music ATX.
I picked up a camera when I was 12 and I've been in love with photographing the world since!
Diversity & Inclusion
In my personal Life and at TLC Photography, I am an advocate for equality — regardless of race, gender identity, sexuality, or physical & mental ability.
I stand against discrimination and racism of any kind. TLC Photography is LGBTQ+ Inclusive Certified by EquallyWed. I am dedicated to actively fighting to make this world safer for everyone. That's why most of our contracts include an inclusion rider and part of our profit is donated to Austin-area local non-profits Future Front Texas, Out Youth, and the Austin Justice Coalition.
