Begin with a simple shape. Add and Adjust a Gradient.

Effect> Pixelate> Color Halftone> Max Radius = 16 and Screen Angles should = 90

Adjust the angle of gradient and opacity to achieve the desired look.

Object> Expand Appearance

Window> Image Trace and Select the High-Fidelity Photo Preset

Object> Expand —> Check object and fill

Delete white background

Color the half-tone dots.

Voila!