Samantha, Shane & Baby Judd
A few years ago, I photographed Samantha and Shane with their baby boy, Judd, in our little garage studio — the Cosy Shed — back when we were living in Belmont in Geelong. Somehow, I never published these photos. Looking at them again now, I felt it was time.
We first met before Sam and Shane’s wedding, which we later filmed and photographed. That initial meeting was relaxed and full of conversation about their plans for the day ahead. At the same time, we captured this early chapter of their family life with Judd, who was just a baby then and is now already in kinder.
These photos, especially the ones of Sam breastfeeding Judd, feel even more significant now. They show such a tender season of life — one that passes quickly, often before we realise it.
Recently, we heard the heartbreaking news that Sam has been diagnosed with stage 2 triple-negative breast cancer, one of the most aggressive and difficult-to-treat forms of breast cancer. With everything she and Shane are facing right now, I felt these images deserved to be seen. They reflect strength, gentleness, and love — all things that are so true of Sam.
Sam is not only an accomplished sportswoman, but also a mum to her two children. Suddenly, Sam & Shane's life changed dramatically - Sam had to close her business and is now undergoing treatment. If you are in a position to support them, there is a GoFundMe page set up to help with daily living costs over the coming months. If you’re in a position to do so, we’d be grateful for any support you can offer Sam and her family during this time, so they know they’re not carrying this on their own.
CLICK HERE TO GO TO GO FUND ME PAGE
We’re thinking of Sam and her family and hoping for steady treatment, strength, and a full recovery in the time ahead.
Hanna