Born in New York City, Garrett Bradley studied at Smith College and later earned an MFA from the University of California, Los Angeles. She gained significant critical attention for her ability to blur the boundaries between traditional documentary filmmaking and fine art, often focusing on the intersection of personal narrative and systemic social structures.

Her work frequently utilizes a mix of observational footage, reenactment, and archival material to examine themes of justice, family, and memory. She is noted for her distinct visual style, which emphasizes the intimacy of her subjects' experiences while contextualizing them within broader historical and political frameworks.

Bradley has received widespread institutional recognition for her contributions to both cinema and the visual arts. Her projects have been featured in major film festivals and museum exhibitions, solidifying her position as a significant voice in contemporary visual culture.