About Me I'm Mallika Malhotra. My friends call me Miki (thus my business name) and my husband calls me "Saturday Morning" because he says I remind him of a cartoon character with my animated personality and my contagious smile.
This is me. I am a photographer, a passionate entrepreneur, a wine lover, a hip shaker and a proud mama to 3 energetic boys. I love my morning coffee, a party invitation and a travel adventure.
I first discovered my passion for photography when we moved to the West Coast many years ago. I had two young toddlers at the time so it wasn’t easy to travel across three time zones to visit family. I found myself feeling lonely and disconnected and it was heartbreaking that my relatives didn’t know my sons’ personalities. So that’s when I picked up a camera and started snapping away. I wanted to capture every moment from milestones to the simple everyday moments in between. I wanted to help tell their story. Photography helped me feel connected again.
It became my lifeline.
The next thing I knew, I was reading books, taking photography workshops and finding different ways to learn the craft. I was hooked! Soon after that, I was photographing pre-school events and friends and family. A few years and thousands of photos later, I realized my passion wasn't just about photography. It was about people. I wanted to help tell their stories. I wanted to help them capture beautiful moments. I wanted to help them celebrate life.
That’s when I started mikifoto.
Some people would call me a portrait photographer. But "portrait" sounds stiff and predictable. And we are anything but. Real life is full of color, chaos and craziness. And this is what I love to shoot. No poses, no fake backgrounds, no robotic smiles. I like to play and have fun. I like to catch moments. I invite my clients to let go and celebrate their life like a party. This is when the magic happens and real memories are made!
Everyone has a story to tell. Let me help you tell yours. Let’s celebrate your story in full color.
Photo credit : Lot 116 Photography
About mikifoto Every photographer is unique. We each have our own way of shooting. Our own style. Our own personality. And our own backgrounds. My intention is to capture your heart and connection in a real, authentic way. I believe that my life experiences have taught me valuable lessons that I bring to my business and that have shaped me into the visual storyteller that I am today.
Here’s what I bring to mikifoto:
An eye for style. Stories tell our beginnings. Many years ago, I wore high heels and suits and worked in the advertising world. I helped create brand stories for big names like L’Oreal and Oil of Olay. From my experiences in the beauty world, I bring with me a trained eye for things that are stylish and fashion forward.
A connection with people. Stories reveal our journey. I’ve moved several times in my life. I’ve lived in coastal California, the Colorado Mountains, sunny Florida and now in the Northeast. With each move, I had to adapt to new situations, new lifestyles and new people. I had to make new business contacts and find new friends. These experiences taught me how to connect with people. Some people would call it a skill or a talent. I consider it a gift.
An appreciation for chaos. Stories are honest. I have a busy, chaotic life. I am a photographer, a business leader for an entrepreneurial women’s organization (Believe, Inspire, Grow), the wife of a pediatric heart surgeon and a mother to 3 active boys. Believe me, I know chaos. Somehow, juggling all of this has given me an appreciation for enjoying the small things in life. And a desire to find beauty amidst the chaos.
A belief in quality over quantity. Stories share our values. I’m not a photographer who just cranks out clients left and right and churns out photographs like some factory. I don’t want my business to become too big or too corporate. I like getting to know my clients and spending time with them and helping them capture their story. So you won’t find me over booking dates or trying to cram too many sessions into a day. That’s not how I want to work. I don’t aim for quantity. I strive for quality.
A desire to celebrate. Stories express our beliefs. I believe you don’t have to wait for milestones and special occasions to celebrate life. Life is jam packed with everyday moments that are meant to be shared. I believe in gratitude for the simplest. Let’s celebrate life!
Work with Me Family - Children
Do you feel like your life is a whirlwind of work, family, home, school and kid activities? Time seems to move at lightning speed and life’s moments just slip through your fingers. Let’s press pause and find the beauty in your chaos. Let’s celebrate your story. Here’s what to expect when you work with me:
BEFORE YOUR SESSION I always start our journey with a conversation about you, your family, and your children. I ask questions about what you like to do together and what each child’s personality is like. I also want to understand your photography needs and your goals for the images. Do you want to create a beautiful wall gallery? Are you looking for gifts for grandparents? Do you want to create keepsake albums? After we get to know each other and book a date, I will send you detailed information on styling and what to wear. This step in the process can sometimes cause anxiety for many parents. But I want this experience to be as stress-free as possible so I’m happy to help you with wardrobe selections. I also have Pinterest styling boards that provide clothing inspiration and ideas.
DURING YOUR SESSION When we meet for your photo session, my first priority is always the children because I want them to feel comfortable and at ease. I treat the shoot almost like a playdate with lots of running, dancing and games. I ask lots of questions to get everyone talking, laughing and feeling relaxed. It will be a busy day, but we can always stop (especially with the little ones) if anyone needs a break. We’ll shoot many different ways. Sometimes with the whole family, sometimes with just parents and sometimes with just the kids. In fact, I might even ask mom and dad to give us some space because many times children feel less pressure when they’re not under scrutiny from their parents! (We all act a little different when our parents aren’t watching, don’t we?) And please don’t be stressed if the kids go wild and are acting silly, because it’s ok (don’t forget I’m a Mom too!). In fact, the chaos is all part of my process and is usually when I capture them in the most natural way.
AFTER YOUR SESSION After your session, I will select the best images and artistically retouch each one. Your digital viewing gallery will be uploaded and ready for you to review within 10-14 days after your photo session. I am known to be lightning fast and usually deliver your slideshow quicker than expected. You’ll be able to view your photos online and also share them with family and friends. The online gallery will be available to you for 7 days. If you need extra
assis-
tance, I am also happy to meet in person to review your images together and help to process your order. Then, once you’ve placed your final order it will take approximately 4 weeks for your final products to arrive. My goal is to capture the connections between your family. Your love. Your quiet moments. Your loud, belly laughs. Your authentic story.
What To
Wear
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR EVERYONE Wear outfits that are bold and colorful and full of texture. Layers can also add visual interest to your outfit. For family or sibling groupings, we don’t want everyone to be too matchy matchy. Dressing everyone alike tends to feel a little too sterile and will look like a family photo from a cruise or a theme park. No offense, but most of us don’t dress alike on a daily basis, so let’s not tell your story that way! Coordinating and complimenting outfits is the way to go. Choose 2-3 base colors and mix it up with coordinating patterns and shades. Bright or deep colors have more contrast and photograph better (think jewel tones, earth tones or fun pops of color like turquoise, magenta or yellow.) I don’t want you to feel anxious or nervous about your wardrobe selection so if it helps, just bring a small suitcase with a few options and I’ll be happy to help you make a final selection.
TIPS FOR KIDS We’re going to run around and have fun so I recommend bare feet for indoor sessions and boots or casual shoes for outdoor sessions (no white sneakers please). Clothing with texture always adds visual interest (chunky knits, dark faded denim, ruffles, buttons, etc.) Kids should wear outfits that reflect their personality (yes, it’s ok to let your princess wear sparkles and her favorite tutu!) but avoid shirts with logos or words on them. Otherwise, have fun!
TIPS FOR PARENTS Dress stylish; yet not too trendy because you don’t want a current fashion statement to make your photos look dated in a few years! Stick to simple, classic, comfortable options and leave the funky, unique styles for the kids. Dark jeans or a flattering wrap dress are usually great choices. Prints are also a nice option, but be sure to stick with patterns that are not too overwhelming. Make sure you select outfits that you can move around in. You might be sitting cross-legged or dancing and twirling or rolling in the grass with the kids, so be sure your outfit isn’t too restrictive, too tight or too short. We’re gonna have fun, so be sure to dress appropriately!
HAIR & FACE ADVICE HAIR: If you plan to get your hair colored or highlighted, I recommend doing it at least a week before the shoot so the color has time to settle a bit. Ladies, I also recommend getting a blowout before the shoot if you have time. In fact, I partner with many local salons and can recommend a great stylist if you need one. FACE: Men usually look best when they’re clean-shaven. If you happen to have any blemishes on the day of the shoot, don’t stress, we can take care of that when I edit and finesse your final images! As for make-up, I would recommend subtle and natural tones over bold and dramatic. Check out my Pinterest styling boards for ideas and inspiration!
Do you wish you could press pause and stop time from moving at lightning speed?
Let’s slow the clock a bit and spend some time having fun. Grab your kiddos and let’s celebrate your story!
Please note that a $200 deposit is required to book session date and that will be applied to your final package price.
Celebrate Your Life Package $2499
Life in the Fun Lane Package $1699
Pre-shoot consultation to discuss session details
Pre-shoot consultation to discuss session details
Wardrobe & styling assistance
Wardrobe & styling assistance
Up to 2 hours of photo session time at a location of
Up to 2 hours of photo session time at a location of
your choice
your choice
Photography of up to 5 people
Photography of up to 5 people
(add $50 per additional person)
(add $50 per additional person)
Online gallery of 30 + artistically edited proofs
Online gallery of 30 + artistically edited proofs One 16x20 gallery wrapped canvas
Wall gallery of (3) 16x24 gallery wrapped canvases OR (3) 16x20 framed prints
Archival flash drive containing all edited images from your session
Archival flash drive containing all edited images from your session
Complete 4x6 print set of all edited images from your session images
Complete 5x7 print set of all edited images from your session images
Coffee table keepsake photo book
Coffee table keepsake photo book & Brag book of photos
Let the Good Times Roll Package $1299 One hour photo session time at a location of your choice
Photography of up to 5 people (add $50 per additional person) Online gallery of 30 + Artistically Edited Proofs Archival flash drive containing all edited images from your session Complete 4x6 print set of all your session
*A $50 additional travel fee will be added for locations outside a 25 mile radius of the 07078 zip code.
Product Portfolio To help you celebrate your story for years to come, I offer a variety of photography products that are included in my session packages. I am very selective so I only offer the best boutique, high quality products to my clients! Here are the details:
CANVAS Images are printed directly on canvas and then stretched over a wood frame for a modern design with photographic texture. It comes ready to hang with hardware included. Choose to hang it frameless or I can add a frame for you (limited frame choices available). I also offer a complimentary in-home consultation to view your space and help you create a stunning custom wall gallery that tells your showstopping story.
FRAMED PRINT Your print is mounted on styrene (similar to a thick cardboard) to prevent warping and bending. It’s then displayed in your choice of either a black or white museum gallery frame that’s both simple and timeless!
PHOTO BOOK There’s nothing like flipping through pages of an album and reliving the stories in the photos! This album features thick lay-flat pages, vibrant color and clean design. You can choose your images or I can help you design a beautiful keepsake to enjoy with your friends and family.
DIGITAL FILES Perfect for the do-it-yourselfer who likes to create prints, holiday cards, family calendars or anything else! You’ll receive both high resolution and web sized images on an archival flash drive. (Be sure to ask me about my list of favorite photo resources!)
PRINTS You’ll receive a complete print set of all the edited images from your session. All images are printed on high quality archival photographic paper. Let’s get those images off the computer and into your hands!
Frequently Asked Questions How can I book my session? That’s easy...just email me at mallika@mikifoto.com or call 352.682.2533 and we can discuss what you’re looking for and find some possible shoot dates. To secure a date, I require an advance deposit of $200. I typically book about 6-8 weeks out. Once you’ve booked a date, we can talk about location, styling and other fun details!
What types of sessions do you do? My sessions are geared towards children, tweens/teens, family, high school seniors and professional business portraits. I like to capture personal stories. I do not photograph weddings or special events.
Where will our session be? I love to shoot in natural light, so I typically prefer to shoot outside. I always recommend early morning or evening for optimal lighting. You can pick your favorite outdoor spot (backyard, local park, downtown) or I am happy to make some suggestions. But together we’ll find the perfect spot to capture your story. Please note that there’s an additional $50 travel fee for sessions outside of a 25-mile radius of the 07078 zip code.
Can you help me plan and pick outfits? Yes! Wardrobe styling is my specialty. I love to offer fashion advice for the entire family, for young girls or the busy entrepreneur. Ask to see some of my Pinterest styling boards.
What camera and lens do you shoot with? I have a Canon 5D Mark III that will help me capture your story. My favorite and most used lens is my 50mm 1.2.
Once I book a session can the date be changed or rescheduled? Look, I know that as much as we try to set things in stone, life happens. I’m a mom who’s used to getting thrown curveballs all the time. So if your kids get the stomach bug, weather gets in our way, or something else comes up, we’ll just work together to find a date to reschedule your session. I can’t promise it will be the very next day or even in the same week, but we’ll do our best to reschedule your session in a timely manner! If you need to reschedule for something other than an emergency, I just ask that you give me a week’s notice so I can plan accordingly!
What is your editing process? I personally edit every single image that I present to you. I would NEVER give you an unfinished product. I will enhance the photos as needed with adjustments to exposure, color and lighting. I will remove blemishes and smooth skin in the most natural way possible. But I won’t change the way you look!
When will my photos be ready? Your digital viewing gallery will be uploaded and ready for you to review within 10-14 days after your photo session. I am known to be lightning fast and usually deliver your slideshow quicker than expected. You’ll be able to view your photos online and also share them with family and friends. The online gallery will be available to you for 7 days. Once you have placed your final order it will take approximately 4 weeks for your final products to arrive.
What kinds of products do you offer? Do you sell digital files? I feel very strongly that every client should have a printed product from their session that they can cherish and enjoy for years to come. All of my photography packages include both printed products as well as edited digital files. I don’t sell products a la carte because it can get confusing and overwhelming. I want to keep the ordering process as simple as possible. Click here to view the details of the family packages or the tween/ teen packages. The only sessions that don’t include printed products are the business/entrepreneurial packages, but they do include digital files! By the way, I am very selective so I only offer my clients the best boutique, high quality printed products in all of my packages!
How can I make a payment? I accept personal checks and debit/credit cards. Your $200 session deposit is due once you are ready to book a session date and that amount will be deducted from your final payment once you select the package of your choice.
Testimonials Robinson Family Mallika was FANTASTIC with the boys -- crawling in the grass, laying on the ground -- whatever it took to get them looking at the camera. The final products are beautiful. The colors really pop and the kids' expressions are fantastic. This has been a complete "no hassle" experience, from easy pricing (a few packages to choose from), convenient scheduling (she came to our house on a Saturday morning), to great products.
Solomon Family The best part about working with Mallika in my opinion is that she contacted me all the time and reminded me about outfits, scheduling, etc. This was key to me because I have a really busy schedule and needed to be reminded like this. In the end, the pictures came out gorgeous and Mallika came to my house to show me the proofs and helped me pick out the best packages, etc. I would highly recommend Mikifoto to anyone who is looking for superior customer service and terrific photos.
Sharma Family Mallika was quick to bring our reticent 7 year old boy at ease & captured some great candid shots of him outdoors. She is a thorough professional who works with each individual in the family and also together as a family. She has a knack of working with the Tweens/Teens and took some breathtaking shots of our daughter. The photo session went really smooth without any stress factor even though the kids changed in and out of different outfits. We thank Mallika for helping us make memories of a lifetime!
Wolfe Family This was our first time our family had a photo session with Mallika – but it certainly won’t be our last. Mallika engaged the girls from the start and had them smiling and laughing right away. Mallika’s fun, vibrant personality behind the camera showed through in every picture…the end result was a nice combination of posed and candid shots where everyone looked relaxed and was having a blast! Thanks to Mallika I now have these beautiful images to remember this moment forever.
Contact Me Are you ready to celebrate your story and capture your wonderful life? I would love to hear from you. I book most new clients 4-6 weeks in advance so please contact me for my current timeline and availability. I do my best to respond to all messages within 1-3 business days.
Thanks for your interest in mikifoto and I look forward to hearing from you.
Mallika Malhotra Photographer | Storyteller | Entrepreneur Short Hills, NJ and NYC Email: mallika@mikifoto.com Phone: 352.682.2533
- Mallika