Meet Calvin Bak | Photographer & Father

We had the good fortune of connecting with Calvin Bak and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Calvin, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
Over time, I’ve come to realize that work-life balance isn’t about perfectly dividing your time—it’s about being fully present where you’re needed most and giving yourself grace when things shift.

My day job in tech allows me to support my family and show up as a reliable team member and leader. I take that seriously, and when it’s time to focus on work, I’m all in. But outside of that, I’m a dad of two and a photographer of eight years. Photography started as a creative escape—capturing the rhythm of LA through double exposures, street scenes in Venice Beach, and the textures of downtown. That creative outlet is a huge part of who I am and it’s also something I continue to do professionally.

These days, I shoot lifestyle portraits and still take on select paid gigs for clients looking for something unique, timeless, and film-forward. My camera helps me stay grounded. And now, with two little ones, a lot of my favorite work happens right at home—documenting everyday moments that tell real, human stories.

Balance for me means knowing some days are about the job that pays the bills, some are about family, and some are about making space for my creativity. It’s less about a perfect juggle and more about knowing what matters in that moment, and showing up for it.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
What sets me apart is how I’ve used my photography to explore what it means to be an Angeleno. Born and raised in LA, I’ve spent years thinking about how to capture the essence of this city—its history, energy, and identity—through my lens. From the laid-back vibes of Venice Beach to the layered chaos of downtown, every shot tells a piece of my story. My work is a reflection of how I see this city evolve, and it’s something I’m incredibly proud of.

Getting to where I am today wasn’t easy. There were plenty of rolls that didn’t turn out, concepts that didn’t land, and moments I missed. But I’ve learned that failure is a natural part of growth. It’s through those challenges that I found my voice. Film photography, in particular, has taught me to slow down, be present, and really focus on being intentional with my work.

If there’s one thing I want the world to know, it’s that art doesn’t need to be rushed or flashy to have meaning. In a world that moves so fast, I believe there’s something powerful about slowing down—the process of waiting to see what develops. When people look at my work, I want them to feel something—whether it’s nostalgia, emotion, or a connection to the story I’m telling. That’s what I felt when I created it, and I hope it resonates with them in the same way.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
LA is great because there’s something for everyone, no matter your vibe. I love the vibrance of Venice Beach, which is where I first got into photography. With the killer sunsets and melting pot of diverse people and cultures, it’s a photographer’s paradise. While you’re there grab, a cheeseburger and pint at Hinano Cafe.

Downtown is another great place for people watching and photography. Grand Central Market has a ton of solid food options. MOCA and The Broad museums are just a short walk away, and they both offer free admission. If you like architecture, the Disney Concert Hall is nearby as well.

I love K-town for their food and bars, but take an Uber because parking is a nightmare. You really can’t go wrong here, but my favorite for KBBQ is Kang Ho Dong Baekjeong. They serve up a buttery boneless galbi that melts in your mouth. Also hit up the Redondo Beach Pier for some fresh seafood, Jitlada for Thai food, and Sonoratown for their tacos, burritos, or anything they wrap up in those bomb flour tortillas.

I think sunrises in LA are highly underrated. I like the the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook and the Griffith Park Observatory. Other touristy spots like Santa Monica Pier are also great at sunrise because you get to avoid the crowds.

For shopping and thrifting, the Rose Bowl Flea Market is a great place to find eccentric goods—and film cameras—and kill a few hours.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and always, I want to give a shoutout to Los Angeles—the city where I was born and raised. Growing up here in the ’90s meant living at the intersection of beach culture and street culture, where every neighborhood had its own rhythm and story. LA surrounded me with diversity—in language, music, food, and perspective—and that richness shaped how I see the world today. It’s also a big part of how I frame it through my lens.

But if we’re talking about who keeps me grounded and growing—it’s my wife. She’s a force. An entrepreneur, a mom, and someone who’s constantly building spaces for others to thrive. Her vision and energy have pushed me to see beyond routine and lean into purpose. She’s the kind of person who believes in you before you believe in yourself, and then challenges you to rise to that belief.

Also, a shoutout to all the people who have trusted me to document their moments—whether it’s a shoot at golden hour on the beach or a quiet portrait at home. That trust means everything. It’s a reminder that art doesn’t exist in isolation—it lives in connection.

Website: https://www.calvinbak.com

Instagram: @tonefreshhh