Check out Monika O’Deegan’s Artwork

Today we’d like to introduce you to Monika O’Deegan.

Monika , we’d love to hear your story and how you got to where you are today both personally and as an artist.
Hello!

I am a newborn photographer living and working in Manhattan Beach, CA.

I am also a mom of three boys (ages 3,5, and 9) who have taught me about wrestling, Star Wars, and the art of talking back.

Before becoming a photographer (and mom) I lived in New York City and worked in the fashion industry. I loved the hustle and bustle of the city and a fast paced, creative work place. However, once I met my husband and became pregnant, I decided it was time to change things up. Leaving NY was the worst break up of my life, but the best decision. Only after 10 years am I getting over it. ha!

I have always loved documenting my life with photos. But, it wasn’t until I saw my first born that I knew I had to capture this new life with a bit more artistry. I decided to go back to school for photography in 2009 and later studied under world renowned newborn photographers Keri Meyers, Caralee Case, and Jennifer Nace. Once I was fully trained, I opened my studio in Manhattan Beach, CA (2014).

We’d love to hear more about your art. What do you do you do and why and what do you hope others will take away from your work?
Being a newborn photographer is incredible. It gives me the opportunity to work with little miracles on a daily basis. The sweet smells, sounds, and smiles of a one-week old baby fills my heart with so much joy and my ovaries with so much desire. haha! Just kidding. Not Kidding.

It is such an intimate and bonding experience for the families and for me. I love meeting and working with my clients to incorporate my experience with fashion into designing the colors, textures, and backdrops that baby will be photographed on. The end results are gorgeous images of their new child captured from so many different angles and perspectives that will be cherished for a lifetime.

The gratitude and emotion I am met with after every session is what fills my tank and keeps me loving life and the path I have chosen.

Have things improved for artists? What should cities do to empower artists?
Oh goodness. This is tough. Sharing art has definitely become easier through social media. But surviving as an artist is a different story. The photography industry has changed so much with digital (instead of film) and social media. The prices you can command have dropped drastically due to the fact that everyone has a digital camera, the newest smart phone, and access to thousands of filters – leaving the perceived value of a photographer’s work lower. Because of this, running a profitable business is hard. Continuously working on my craft to keep it unique, natural, fresh and artistic keeps the need for a professional high and me in the game.

For a new photographer, find what you love and stick with it. Through time and practice you will find your own special niche and style.

I love Los Angeles, for its strong community of artists. Shopping local, supporting artists through word of mouth, and engaging with artists through social media are all ways to keep their spirits high and artwork thriving.

Do you have any events or exhibitions coming up? Where would one go to see more of your work? How can people support you and your artwork?
Much of my work can be seen on Instagram. I post daily @photosbymonika (https://www.instagram.com/photosbymonika/)

Monthly, I also share client galleries on my blog at www.photosbymonika.com

The comments and support you give me through Instagram and Facebook is priceless. It encourages me to continue and engages me with the outside world.

I love social media as much as the next. However, there is no better support that you can show an artist (or anyone, really) than by referral. Word of mouth is so powerful and gives the confidence and comfort that new parents need in such a delicate time in their baby’s life.

Contact Info:

• Address: 505 N Sepulveda Blvd Suite 10
  Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
• Website: www.phototsbymonika.com
• Phone: 646-388-0765
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/photosbymonika/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/photosbymonika/
• Other: https://www.pinterest.com/photosbymonika/pins/

Image Credit:
All images by Photos By Monika | Monika O’Deegan

Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.