How to Look Great in Your Wedding Photos (From Someone Who Still Models for the Best Agencies in the World)

Before I ever became a wedding photographer, and still to this day, I’ve spent a huge part of my life in front of the camera. I’ve modeled for Models 1, Ford, and some of the biggest agencies around the world. Campaigns, runways, editorials, test shoots, I’ve done the lot.

And here’s the thing most photographers won’t tell you:

Looking good in photos isn’t about being “photogenic.” It’s about feeling comfortable, moving naturally, and not overthinking it.

After 20 years of being photographed for a living, and now photographing couples for a living, I’ve learned exactly what makes people look their best. Here’s the real, no‑nonsense advice I wish everyone knew.

1. Relaxation Beats Perfection Every Time

People think models are “posing.” We’re not. We’re relaxing.

The camera picks up tension instantly, in your jaw, your shoulders, your hands, your eyes.

The trick I learned on set (and still use today): exhale, drop your shoulders, soften your face.   That tiny shift changes everything.

You don’t need to perform. You just need to stop holding yourself tightly.

2. Movement Is the Secret Weapon

Stillness is the enemy of natural photos.

On modelling jobs, the best shots always come from micro‑movements:

• shifting your weight

• turning slightly

• brushing hair back

• walking slowly

• leaning into your partner

Movement makes you look alive. Movement makes you look confident. Movement makes you look like you.

On your wedding day, I’ll guide you into natural movement so you never feel stiff or awkward.

3. Don’t Think About Your Face — Think About the Moment

This is something I learned early in my modelling career:

Your face follows your emotion.

If you’re thinking “Do I look weird?” …your face tightens.

If you’re thinking “I’m marrying my favorite person,” …your whole expression softens.

You don’t need to “smile for the camera.” You just need to be present in the moment.

4. Your Best Angle Is the One That Feels Natural

Models don’t have one magic angle. We have angles that feel comfortable.

For most people:

• turning your body slightly

• letting your chin come forward a touch

• relaxing your jaw

• softening your mouth

…creates a natural, flattering shape.

But honestly? Your best angle is the one where you’re not thinking about angles.

My job is to find your light, your shape, your energy, not force you into something that feels unnatural.

5. Trust Changes Everything

When I was modelling in New York, Paris, London, wherever, the best shoots were always with photographers I trusted. The worst ones were with photographers who made me feel self‑conscious.

Trust changes your whole body language.

On your wedding day, you shouldn’t be worrying about:

• what you look like

• where to put your hands

• whether you’re doing it “right”

That’s my job. Your job is to enjoy the day.

6. The Best Photos Happen When You Forget the Camera Exists

This is the biggest lesson from 20 years in front of the lens:

The camera disappears when the moment is real.

When you’re laughing, hugging, walking, talking, crying, that’s when the magic happens.

You don’t need to pose. You just need to live the moment.

I’ll take care of the rest.

If You Hate Being Photographed, You’re Exactly My People

Most of the couples I work with tell me they’re awkward in front of the camera. Good. Awkward people make the best photos because they’re real.

My whole approach is documentary‑style, natural, honest, unfussy. And with 20 years of experience on both sides of the lens, I know exactly how to help you feel comfortable without forcing anything.

Get in touch at admin@craigprestonroberts.com

London & Home Counties    

Short‑notice dates available

You don’t need to know how to pose. You just need to show up. I’ll handle the rest.