Palace refuses to release unedited version of Kate photo as controversy mounts

11 March 2024 , 11:56

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Palace refuses to release unedited version of Kate photo as controversy mounts

Kensington Palace has refused to release the unedited photograph of the Cambridge family.

It comes after an image of the Princess of Wales and her children was posted in line with Mother's Day. But the image sparked backlash from critics after they noticed it had been altered. In response, multiple news agencies withdrew the image with a “Kill” notice following concerns that it has been manipulated.

Kate has since apologised for the "confusion" and said she is behind the mysterious edit. She tweeted: “Like many amateur photographers, I do occasionally experiment with editing. I wanted to express my apologies for any confusion the family photograph we shared yesterday caused. I hope everyone celebrating had a very happy Mother’s Day. C.”

Critics questioned why Kate's engagement ring is missing (PA)

People also noticed that the children's fingers were all crossed in the image (PA)

The photograph of Kate and her children, taken by the Prince of Wales, was the first to be issued since the princess’s abdominal surgery. Royal sources said the Princess of Wales made “minor adjustments” and that Kate and the Prince of Wales wanted to offer an informal picture of the family together for Mother’s Day.

A palace source added: "The Princess has shared a statement on social media. This was an amateur, family photograph taken by the Prince of Wales. Their royal highnesses wanted to offer an informal picture of the family together for Mother's Day. The Princess made minor adjustments as she shared in her statement on social media. The Wales family spent Mother’s Day together and had a wonderful day."

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Kate says she edited the image of her and her children (Getty Images)

Despite calls for the original to be published, Kensington Palace said it would not be reissuing the unedited photograph of Kate and her children. The Palace has faced growing pressure over the debacle with the controversy branded “damaging” to the public’s trust of the royal family.

Concerns were raised over a missing part of Princess Charlotte’s sleeve and the misaligned edge of her skirt, with other speculation including the positioning of Kate’s zip. The Mirror has contacted Kensington Palace for comment.

Monica Charsley