THE Traditional Christmas greetings from William and Kate never disappoint. And this year, the image unexpectedly monochromatic, with the Princes of Wales and their three children all in white shirts and dark trousers, has been praised for a simplicity and elegance of style that seems to evoke that of Lady Diana. The message is clear: the little ones are growing up, the entire family is preparing, one day, to inherit the Crown.
But everything went wrong when, upon closer inspection, the image revealed retouching (perhaps with Photoshop) which instead transformed it into yet another Royal gaffe.
William and Kate without legs. And Louis is missing a finger
In the photo, taken by new Royal photographer Josh Shinner, 8-year-old Charlotte, the only one sitting on a chair, was immediately highlighted as the real star in the family. Heir to the throne George, 10, is standing next to his mother. But William and Kate’s left legs seem to have mysteriously disappeared. And besides having a missing finger on one hand, little Louis, 5 years old and fourth in line of succession, seems to have a mini crown on his head, caused by a reflection of light on the hair.
Looking for a little finger for Prince Louis
Comments also appeared on social media legs of Wales’ third child. Did they perhaps replace one? And why? The hunt for possible explanations immediately began: the middle finger that appears to be missing from Louis’ hand could have been “hidden” by the little one under the armrest of the chair on which Charlotte is sitting.
Court jokes
Posting the Royal photo alongside a series of sketches prepared before the chosen shot, the author of the image, Josh Shinner, photographer of Hollywood stars, did not comment on the criticism but wrote: «It was without a doubt one of the most relaxing and enjoyable sessions I have ever worked on. And now, thanks to the children, I also have a whole series of jokes suited to my level…».
Charlotte, George and Louis with Kate at a charity event, Slough, England, May 2023 (Getty Images)
Kansington Palace’s silence on imperfections
From Kensington Palace, the home of the offices of the Princes of Wales, no explanations were received. And the ironic comments from the British media were not long in coming. The images released by the Royal press office are usually accompanied by clear instructions: before publication they cannot be manipulated or digitally modified in any way.
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