Comments ranged from mild curiosity to direct criticism, with some questioning why a Christmas card would feature a photo taken months earlier. Others remarked that the image looked more appropriate for spring, particularly as the children have grown noticeably since it was taken.
The photograph was captured in April by photographer Josh Shinner and was previously used to mark Prince George’s 12th birthday and Prince Louis’ seventh birthday earlier this year.
A Pattern of Unconventional Choices
This is not the first time the Waleses’ Christmas card has attracted attention for breaking with tradition. Their 2024 card also prompted discussion after it featured a digitally enhanced snowy animation rather than a conventional still photograph.
That release coincided with a significant moment for the family, arriving on the same day as a pre-recorded message from Princess Catherine announcing the completion of her chemotherapy treatment following her cancer diagnosis earlier in 2024.
A Year of Change and Renewal
