Born in Istanbul in 1973, she completed her primary and secondary education in the same city. She began her art education in 1992 at the Photography Department of the Faculty of Fine Arts at Mimar Sinan University. After completing her undergraduate studies in 1996, she went to the United States to pursue professional research. She received her Master’s degree in 2003, her Proficiency in Art (Doctorate in Art) in 2005, the title of Associate Professor in 2011, and the title of Professor in 2018.

Since 1989, Onat has used photography as a means of expression and has conducted research on contemporary photography as well as on the relationship between photography and other art disciplines. Throughout her artistic production process, she has participated in numerous national and international exhibitions, received international awards, taken part in various academic projects, and produced publications. She currently serves as a faculty member, teaching courses on contemporary photography and photographic techniques.