Captured Like an Icon

Celebrity Portraits · Executive Portraits · Personal Branding

This Is Not a Typical Portrait Studio

Every MAKIPHOTO session is creatively directed.

I completely reject the sterile, static corporate headshot. Born out of Tokyo’s fast-paced high-fashion scene and refined over decades shooting global ad campaigns, my work brings movement, raw energy, and cinematic color to your personal brand.

When you step into my North Park studio, you are hiring a commercial director, not just a photographer. Together, we bypass stiff, traditional staging to capture images with sharp individuality and an undeniable editorial edge.

This is where everyday professionals are captured like icons.

Explore Sessions
Editorial portrait of Fergie | Black Eyed Peas reclining on a turquoise chaise lounge, photographed by Maki Kawakita.
Fashion editorial portrait of Marion Raven wearing a white blouse and statement jewelry, photographed by Maki Kawakita.
Fashion editorial portrait of Marion Raven wearing a white blouse and statement jewelry, photographed by Maki Kawakita.
Editorial portrait of Japanese rock group Glay wearing a white jacket on a dramatic staircase, photographed by Maki Kawakita.
CM Punk in a black tuxedo with hand wraps posing in a dramatic portrait, photographed by Maki Kawakita.
Paris Hilton in a beige bow-front dress and white headband posing against a silver sequined backdrop, photographed by Maki Kawakita.
Portrait of Fergie / Black Eyed Peas with long wavy blonde hair wearing a blue sequined dress indoors, photographed by Maki Kawakita.
Smiling Arianna Huffington with shoulder-length brown hair and clasped hands leaning over an orange textured surface, photographed by Maki Kawakita.
Portrait of Missy Elliot wearing a patterned headscarf, hoop earrings, and a black-and-yellow Adidas tracksuit against a white background, photographed by Maki Kawakita.
Amerié with long black hair wearing a green top and high-waisted white shorts posing against a gray background, photographed by Maki Kawakita.
Brandy sitting on a rope swing at a tropical beach with turquoise ocean and blue sky, in Jamaica, photographed by Maki Kawakita.
Fashion portrait of Yabuki Haruna reclining on leopard-print fabric in a sequined beige halter top, photographed by Maki Kawakita.
Kelly Rowland posing in a sleeveless blue sequined dress and high heels against a dark studio background, photographed by Maki Kawakita.

  • “Working with Maki was effortless. She captured a confident, approachable image that truly reflects how I want to be seen by my clients.”

    Attorney at Law

  • “Maki understood my brand immediately. The portraits elevated my marketing and helped me stand out in a competitive market.”

    Real Estate Broker

  • “Her attention to detail and ability to capture professionalism without stiffness made all the difference. The images feel authentic and powerful.”

    Financial Advisor

  • “She made the session feel comfortable and fun. The photos captured who I am at this milestone, not just what I look like. My family absolutely loved them.”

    College Graduate

Why MAKIPHOTO?

You are not just hiring a photographer; you are commissioning decades of elite industry experience. Having shot global campaigns and iconic public figures, I bring a sharp, high-fashion eye to your visual legacy. Whether you need a celebrity-caliber portfolio or a striking personal brand, I don’t do sterile, cookie-cutter headshots.

I peel back the layers to capture your magnetic presence and raw originality beautifully. This is about creating high-impact, effortlessly iconic imagery that honors your true story, commands attention, and leaves an unforgettable impression.

Ready to step into your power and own your visual narrative?

Explore our portrait experiences, select your package, and secure your session online. Your scheduling will be arranged personally right after purchase.

Book Your Session