There are photographers who take beautiful pictures, and then there are photographers who somehow bottle the feeling of a wedding day — the movement, the emotion, the fleeting glances you didn’t even know happened. Chris Giles has always been firmly in the second camp. As one of our preferred photographers (and a long‑standing friend of the Lillibrooke team), he knows this place and our couples in a way that goes far beyond logistics.
Chris has photographed countless celebrations across our barns, gardens and historic spaces, and he brings a fun and joyful presence that couples adore. His work is rooted in honesty — real moments, real reactions, real connection — and Lillibrooke’s flow, character and variety give him the perfect canvas to do what he does best.
We sat down with Chris to talk about how he approaches weddings here, how he helps couples feel completely themselves in front of the camera, and the candid moments that make this job so special.
How does Lillibrooke Manor help you create those natural, in-the-moment photographs?
Lillibrooke is brilliant for unscripted photos because it naturally flows. You’ve got different spaces that let the day breathe with barns, gardens, the Manor House and courtyard areas. There’s always somewhere new to go to meanings guests aren’t stuck in one room all day. That movement is where the real moments happen.
It’s also ideal in any weather. If it’s bright, the cloister garden and lawns are perfect for relaxed mingling. If it’s raining, you’re still surrounded by great light and character indoors, so I can keep things natural without forcing moments.
What do you do (before or during) to help couples relax and feel confident as their photographer?
I treat it like a conversation, not a photoshoot. I’ll talk you through things in a normal, human way, keep you moving, and keep it light. Sure, there’s lots of people around but we head away from them so it’s just the three of us having a laugh while I’m doing my job in a considered way.
On the day, I take care of the little stuff (veil, dress, pockets, anything distracting) so you don’t have to. I also break portraits up into small chunks — a quick 15 minutes here, another 15 later — so you’re not away from your guests for ages and it never feels intense.
I’m known for being supportive and gentle about the whole thing which is especially good for those who feel awkward in front of a camera.
Before booking, what questions do you like to ask to get their vibe?
I’m basically trying to understand who you are, and what “a good day” looks like to you. I’ll usually ask things like:
- What do you want this to feel like – chilled, full-on party, classic, alternative?
- What do you absolutely not want (cringey poses, loads of staged stuff, etc.)?
- Are there any family dynamics I should be aware of, or anyone really important to you?
- What parts of the day matter most to you (ceremony emotion, speeches, dancefloor chaos, quiet moments)?
- Are you comfortable being photographed, or are you a bit “please help”? (Very common!)
I also try to ‘see’ people as much as possible. It’s not just about the couple as they know what they look like – but everyone else too.
How do you use different areas of the venue to tailor things to each couple?
Lillibrooke gives options, which is exactly what you need to make it feel personal. The Great Barn has that big, atmospheric feel (epic for energy and scale). The Small Barn and Cloister Garden feel more intimate and tucked-away. The Manor House and lawns have a more classic look. And the Engine House gives a clean, bright space that works really well if you want something calmer (or need a weather-proof plan B).
What candid moments do you find naturally unfold at weddings?
The ones people don’t plan — and later say, “I didn’t even see that happening.” That might be:
- A parent’s reaction during the ceremony
- Someone steadying a nervous hand before a speech
- The quick look between you two when you think nobody’s watching
- Friends doing something ridiculous on the dancefloor
- The little regroup moments: a deep breath, a hug, a laugh, a “can you believe this?” glance
That’s the documentary side — letting the day happen and telling it honestly.
What would you say to couples who feel nervous about being photographed, especially at Lillibrooke?
First: you’re normal. Most people tell me they’re awkward in photos or are camera averse.
Second: you don’t need to “perform”. I’m not looking for perfect posing — I’m looking for you being present with each other. We keep it simple, keep it moving, and I’ll guide you in a way that doesn’t feel like modelling. It’s definitely NOT about staring at the camera with a grin.
Lillibrooke helps because it’s not just one backdrop. If you feel on-show, we can use quieter areas. If you feel better doing something (walking, chatting), the grounds and layout make that easy.
The perfect photo moment you’ve captured at Lillibrooke — what was it and why was it special?
There’s been lots but one is where I too the best sparkler shot ever. People don’t realise just how hard it is to nail a sparkler shot when people have been drinking, can’t be manoeuvred, there’s red hot things everywhere and you have like, 30 seconds to get the shot.
But I did and here it is:
Spending time with Chris always reminds us why he’s such a valued part of the Lillibrooke family. His approach is thoughtful, unforced and deeply people‑centred — the kind of energy that helps couples relax, breathe and genuinely enjoy being photographed. He sees the beauty in the in‑between moments, the ones that often become the most treasured images of the day.
Lillibrooke Manor’s barns, gardens and tucked‑away corners give him endless opportunities to create something personal for every couple, whether that’s a quiet moment in the Cloister Garden or a full‑scale sparkler shot that somehow comes together in 30 chaotic seconds. His ability to adapt, reassure and gently guide couples is exactly why so many choose him — and why we’re always thrilled to welcome him back.
If you’re looking for a photographer who captures your day as it truly felt, with all the joy, movement and emotion intact, Chris Giles is someone we wholeheartedly recommend. He brings talent, heart and a genuine love for what he does — and it shows in every frame.
