Kate Middleton has recently faced criticism over allegations of altering a family photo released by the palace. The photo in question is a portrait of the late Queen Elizabeth and her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, taken by Kate and initially shared by Buckingham Palace on what would have been the monarch's 97th birthday in April 2023.
After nearly a year of being public, Getty Images disclosed on Monday that the picture had been digitally enhanced. The image, captured by the Princess of Wales during a family trip to Balmoral, features the Queen seated with William and Kate’s children - Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis - alongside their royal cousins.
The Telegraph highlighted 'several inconsistencies' in the photo, such as a mismatch in the tartan of the late Queen’s skirt and a digital repetition of Mia Tindall’s hair. The news of the manipulation comes shortly after experts found editing errors in a Mother’s Day photo shared by Kate earlier this month, including Princess Charlotte's hair being oddly cut off and distortions in the image.
In response to the controversy, Kate issued an apology on social media, expressing regret for any confusion caused by the edited photograph. Instagram also flagged the image as 'altered.' Meanwhile, the Prince of Wales showed support for his wife during an outing in London, where he acknowledged Kate's artistic talents and praised his children's creativity.