10 March 2024 , 22:01
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The world's biggest photo agencies tonight said a photograph issued by Kensington Palace of the Princess of Wales and her three children had been "manipulated".
The Associated Press (AP) Reuters, Agence France-Presse (AFP) and Getty Images all separately issued a "kill notice" to media organisations around the globe, confirming they had each deleted the image from their individual libraries. Sources said the agencies believed the image, said by Kensington Palace to have been taken last week in Windsor, showing the Princess and their three children, Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, nine and Prince Louis, five, had been edited from the original.
A notice from the Associated Press read: "At closer inspection it appears that the source has manipulated the image."
Earlier in the day, eagle-eyed royal fans on social media spotted that the sleeve of Princess Charlotte's arm did not line-up. Questions were also raised over Prince George's right hand being out of focus.
Charlotte appears to be missing a bit of her arm
Prince Louis has previously seemingly lost his fingerPortrait photographer Martin Bamford posted the image on X, writing: "Professional photographer here. Look closely at Princess Charlotte’s wrist. This is what happens when you composite layers in Photoshop. I’m not speculating on why the photo was edited like this, but it’s weird."
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It comes after the royals ' Christmas card also suffered a photoshop fail after Prince Louis was left without a middle finger. Kensington Palace refused to comment when asked whether the image had been altered.
The sweet family portrait, taken by Prince William, was posted on their official social media platforms on Sunday for Mother's Day. A message, which appeared to be written and signed off by Kate herself, said: "Thank you for your kind wishes and continued support over the last two months. Wishing everyone a Happy Mother's Day. C".
It comes as palace aides last week hit out at "the madness of social media" after a series of conspiracy theories over Kate's whereabouts spiralled out of control. Kensington Palace issued a rare statement reacting to online speculation about the Princess's health amidst concerns she had not been seen in public since Christmas.
A Palace spokesperson said: “Kensington Palace made it clear in January the timelines of the princess’ recovery and we’d only be providing significant updates. That guidance stands.” They did, however, add that Kate continues to do "well".