Leif Carlsson studied in New York at the International Center of Photography founded by Cornell Capa. He worked for various organizations in New York before moving to Paris in 1999. He works with the French Red Cross and with many French and Swedish magazines such as "L'Express" and "Capital." He continues to work with clients in New York and various other locations throughout Europe.

Starting with a long artistic collaboration with Hennessy, Leif has developed a passion for the world of wine making and has himself become something of a connoisseur of French wines. He has photographed for many of the finest French winemakers and is the primary photographer behind the luxury book "Distinctive Vintages: Fine French Wines & Spirits."

Leif is the 2019 winner of the prestigious Champagne Louis Roederer Artistry of Wine Award (The Louis Roederer International Wine Writers' Awards 2019).

Leif lives in Paris with his wife and three children.