I first met Cat and Nick back in February when snow was on the ground and the temperature was in the minuses. It couldn’t have been more different than last week at Castle Howard. The weather was gorgeous and I’d forgotten how spectacular Castle Howard is – a photographer’s dream. But what really made the shoot was Cat and Nick themselves. They were so much fun. I didn’t have to ask them to do anything in these pictures, they were just spontaneously larking about and having a great time together, in between the odd pause to contemplate. Not surprisingly I am really looking forward to their wedding at The George Hotel, Piercebridge, near Darlington. If they’re even half as relaxed and happy as they were at their pre-wedding session it’s going to be an amazing wedding. 
Roundhay Park is one of my favourite places for portrait shoots and as it’s loved by so many families in Leeds I’m there a lot. Every time I find somewhere new to get some lovely informal family portraits and this time was no exception. Maddie and Joel and their mum and dad were great sports and we made the most of the sunshine by having a play and an explore. Here are a few of my favourites from the session.
Aimee and Ben had their wedding on the hottest, most summery day at Fountains Abbey, followed by the reception at Ripon Racecourse. It was a special day to photograph in many ways: I used to work with Aimee about five years ago in PR and had several conversations with her then about the chances of Ben ever asking her to marry him; the venue was fitting as Ben is a journalist who writes about horse racing, and it was a very emotional day, with lots of tears of joy (the groom in particular was a big softie!). The ceremony, the reception and the party afterwards had a really wonderful atmosphere. Thanks to Neil Matthews for being an excellent second shooter. I drove home through the Yorkshire countryside afterwards feeling like I’ve got the best job in the world. Great venues, fantastic people. Here are some of my favourite shots from the day. There are rather a lot – I did say it was special!
Archie and Billy are brothers and their mum wanted a portrait of them while they are still babies. They are very close together in age and you can see how well they’re going to get along as they grow up as there’s already a clear bond. I had a lovely morning at home with them before Billy had his nap and they were great to photograph with lots of smiles and fun. Archie is very much into his ball sports and Billy is keen to join in so I’m sure it won’t be long before he’s just as mobile.
First it was rugby…
Then football…
And even a bit of golf…
It’s tough when you can’t join in properly. I had to include this one for the cuteness factor, but never has ‘joy to see’ been less appropriate. The dot of the J on his face can’t be very comfortable either! Poor Billy.
Luckily he quickly cheered up and we got a few shots of them together and individually.
Back indoors Thomas The Tank Engine was far more interesting than me and my camera.
by susie
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