Princess of Wales apologises for editing Mother's Day family picture

The Princess of Wales apologised on Monday for editing a family photograph which was shared online and sent to media on Mother's Day.

In a post, personally signed C for Catherine, she said: "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.”

Kensington Palace had been under pressure to answer questions about whether the first picture of the Princess of Wales to be released after her surgery had been digitally altered.

The photograph was shared with media on Sunday but it was withdrawn by international picture agencies later the same day because of concerns that the image had been manipulated.

The picture shows Kate sitting in a chair with her arms around Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, who are on either side of her, with Prince George standing behind, as all four smile at the camera.

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

— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) March 11, 2024

But there was speculation that edits had been made to the left sleeve of Princess Charlotte's cardigan, and other areas of the picture also raised concerns about possible manipulation.

In Sunday’s social media post, Kate thanked the public "for your kind wishes and continued support over the last two months".