Spring Family Session in Abbeystead with the Durdy Family
Spring family session with the Durdy Family in Abbeystead
Spring sessions always feel like the world gently waking up again — longer days, softer light, and the quiet promise of warmer months ahead. This particular session in Abbeystead was made even more meaningful because it was filled with memories both old and new.
When Robyn and Jeff suggested Abbeystead for their family session, it felt like the perfect choice. Not just for its rolling countryside and peaceful landscapes, but because it holds a very special place in their story. It’s where they celebrated their wedding in 2019 — a place woven into their history together.
Returning now with their daughter Orla, who had just celebrated her first birthday, felt like a beautiful full-circle moment.
Returning to a Place Full of Memories
Before Orla arrived, Robyn and Jeff spent many of their weekends exploring the outdoors together — walking, breathing in the fresh air, and finding those quiet places where life slows down for a little while.
Nature has always been an important part of their lives, and it’s something they hope to share with Orla as she grows. Even at one year old, you can already see her curiosity — little hands exploring, wide eyes taking everything in.
That’s one of the things I love most about photographing families outdoors. There’s space to move, to play, to pause and simply be together. The moments unfold naturally — a giggle when Dad lifts you high into the air, the comfort of sitting close between Mum and Dad, tiny discoveries that feel enormous when you’re one.
Family moments in Abbeystead, a place so special to the Durdy Family
Celebrating the First Year
The first year of a child’s life moves at lightning speed.
One minute they’re tiny and new, and the next they’re sitting confidently, laughing, exploring, and showing glimpses of the little person they’re becoming. Orla had just reached that wonderful stage — full of personality, curiosity and those beautiful in-between moments that make first birthdays such a meaningful milestone to document.
These sessions aren’t about perfectly posed portraits. They’re about connection — the way parents look at their child, the laughter shared between them, and the small, fleeting moments that will one day become treasured memories.
And capturing those moments in a place that already holds such significance for Robyn and Jeff made this session even more special.
Why Spring is the Perfect Time for Family Photos
Spring is one of my favourite seasons for family sessions.
After the quiet stillness of winter, everything begins to feel alive again. The light softens, the days stretch longer, and the countryside slowly fills with colour and texture.
It’s also a season that mirrors family life beautifully — growth, change, and new beginnings.
If you’ve been thinking about booking family photos, spring is the perfect time to do it. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone like a first birthday, marking a new chapter, or simply wanting to pause time for a moment and capture your family exactly as you are right now.
Because these seasons — both in nature and in family life — pass more quickly than we realise.
And one day, these photographs will take you straight back to them.
✨ Thinking about your own spring family session?
If you’d love relaxed, natural photographs of your family outdoors — running, exploring, and simply being together — I’d love to help you tell your story. Spring sessions are now open, and it’s such a beautiful time to capture your family memories.
Tender family moments with the Durdy family in Abbeystead
Baby Orla playing with a tambourine in mum & dad’s arms
Baby Orla in her carrier, black and white moments from the Durdy family photo session
Golden light at the spring family photo session with the Durdy family
