Life & Work with Monica Baddar of Los Angeles

Today we’d like to introduce you to Monica Baddar.

Hi Monica, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Growing up with Egyptian parents, my early path felt clearly defined. Becoming a doctor was the expected direction. While I was always fascinated by psychology and the human body, I was an artist at heart. I drew, danced, sang, painted, and played the piano from a young age.

In middle school, I discovered photography, and thats when everything shifted. My junior year of college, I chose to defy expectations, follow my intuition, and pursue photography instead of physiology. I have always been drawn to finding beauty in many forms, whether through nature, people, or fashion.

It has been about sixteen years now, and I feel deeply grateful to share my vision. At this stage in my life, what feels most meaningful is the integration of all parts of me. The artist and the healer coming together. I’ve been called a healer with a camera, seeking the spark and essence in every person I photograph.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Yes and no. It has felt smooth because photography is truly my passion, so it never feels like work, and I am very grateful for that. The challenges have come from the uncertainty of the artist’s path, which is rarely linear and full of ups and downs. What I have learned is that my personal growth directly reflects in my work. The more I understand myself, the clearer my vision becomes. Letting go of perfection, staying authentic, and trusting my intuition have been key parts of the journey.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a photographer specializing in portraiture and fashion. My work focuses on capturing authenticity, presence, and emotion. I am especially proud of seeing my images displayed on billboards in New York City, that was seriously surreal!

What I value just as much are the relationships I have built along the way. The connections with the people I photograph and collaborate with are at the heart of my work. What sets me apart is my ability to create a space where people feel seen and comfortable, allowing their true essence to come through in front of the camera.

Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
I would encourage anyone reading this to trust their inner guidance and follow what genuinely lights them up. The most meaningful paths are rarely the safest or most predictable ones. When you listen to your intuition and move in alignment with your heart, your work, your purpose, and your life begin to unfold naturally.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.monicabaddar.com
• Instagram: @monicabaddar