CFWA Headshot Photography Party at Mission Inn Resort + Club in Howey-in-the-Hills, Orlando, Florida

Creative Headshots with the Central Florida Wedding Association

Recently, I had the absolute joy of being one of the photographers for the Central Florida Wedding Association (CFWA) Headshot Party held at the stunning Mission Inn Resort + Club in Howey-in-the-Hills, Florida. This was my first time participating in a headshot marathon event like this—and it was every bit as exciting, fast-paced, and creatively fulfilling as I imagined it would be!

What made this experience extra special was getting to step outside the traditional box of corporate headshots. Using MagMod gels and modifiers, I played with color, contrast, and shadow to give each vendor a portrait that reflected their individual brand. My goal was to make every headshot feel authentic and expressive—not stiff or overly formal. For the gentlemen, I used refined, directional lighting to give their portraits sophistication and depth. For others, we leaned into playful energy or soft, creative tones that mirrored their artistic businesses.

The hallway where I set up inside Mission Inn turned out to be the perfect little nook for lighting magic! It was incredible to see how a simple corridor could transform into a vibrant studio space with just a few tools and creativity.

About the Mission Inn Resort + Club

If you’ve never visited Mission Inn Resort + Club, you are in for a treat. Nestled among rolling hills and lush Florida landscapes, this historic resort is a breathtaking location for weddings, events, and photo sessions. From its Spanish-style architecture and elegant courtyards to the scenic golf course views and grand ballrooms, Mission Inn offers an incredible range of backdrops for every wedding aesthetic—from romantic and classic to modern and luxurious.

Whether hosting an intimate celebration or a grand event, Mission Inn seamlessly blends old-world charm with upscale amenities. As a photographer, I’m continually inspired by how photogenic this property is in every direction—dreamy garden portraits, sunset golf-course scenes, and dramatic ballroom entrances are all part of its charm.

What Is the Central Florida Wedding Association?

The Central Florida Wedding Association (CFWA) is a collective of the region’s top wedding professionals who collaborate, network, and support each other to elevate the Central Florida wedding community. Members include photographers, planners, florists, DJs, venues, caterers, and countless other talented creatives who share a passion for their craft and a commitment to excellence.

As a proud CFWA member, I’ve had the pleasure of working alongside so many of these incredible professionals. Participating in the headshot party felt like giving back to the very community that inspires me. It was such an honor to help fellow vendors refresh their branding, showcase their personalities, and create portraits that truly feel like them.

A New Love: Headshot Marathons!

This CFWA event was my first-ever headshot marathon, and I’m officially hooked! The challenge of working quickly, posing with purpose, and drawing out someone’s personality in minutes was exhilarating. Each interaction became a creative sprint—energizing, rewarding, and filled with laughter. The day reminded me that portraiture is so much more than lighting and posing—it’s connection, confidence, and storytelling in a single frame.

If you’re part of a professional group, association, or team and want to host a headshot experience that feels vibrant and on-brand, let’s talk! I’d love to bring this concept to more creative professionals who deserve portraits that capture their true personality.

To everyone I photographed at the CFWA Headshot Party—thank you for trusting me with your brand and your smile. You all absolutely rocked it, and I can’t wait to see your new images shining across websites, social media, and marketing materials!

Mission Inn Resort + Club | CFWA Headshot Photographer | Michelle Vila Photography

Documenting this event was such an honor. The combination of artistry, collaboration, and community at Mission Inn Resort + Club was a perfect reminder of why I love this industry.

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✨ Featured Links

• Central Florida Wedding Association (CFWA)
• Mission Inn Resort + Club
• Mission Inn Weddings & Events

All of the wonderful vendors who sponsored the CFWA Headshot Party event:

• Central Florida Wedding Association: @thecfwa
• Mission Resort: @missionresortweddings
• Connie Duglin Linens: @cdlinen
• Michelle Vila Photography: @michellevilaphotography
• Photobooth Rocks: @photoboothrocks
• Desserts - Sweet Miss Vs: @sweetmissvs
• Florals - The Flower Studio Oxford: @theflowerstudiooxford & @tfs.weddings
• Our DJ Rocks: @ourdjrocks
• Rentals - A Chair Affair: @achairaffair
• Laura Reynolds Artistry: @laurareynoldsartist & @laurareynoldsartistorlando
• House of Sheen Glam Team: @houseofsheen_glamteam
• Kristy's Artistry: @kristysartistrydesignteam
• Awe Glammed Up: @aweglammedup
• Charity - Taco Shop South Lake: @tncofsouthlake