Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh’s 60th Birthday Marked with Stunning New Portraits

Photographer Christina Ebenezer recently captured the Duchess of Edinburgh in a series of stunning portraits to commemorate her 60th birthday on January 20th. Ebenezer, who also shared a candid behind-the-scenes photo on Instagram, offered a glimpse into the relaxed atmosphere of the photoshoot at Bagshot Park, Sophie’s home with her husband Prince Edward.

In the unseen photo, the Duchess exudes warmth and humor, leaning in a doorway with a hand over her mouth as if stifling a laugh. She wears a burgundy sweater, brown patterned trousers, and gold statement earrings—a third outfit not included in the officially released portraits.

Ebenezer, reflecting on the honor of photographing a member of the Royal Family, quoted a Bible verse about gifts, describing the experience as a testament to God’s favor. She detailed how the commission arose from the Duchess’ admiration of Ebenezer’s portraits of actresses Letitia Wright and Michaela Coel at the National Portrait Gallery.

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“These portraits were taken to mark The Duchess Of Edinburgh’s 60th birthday celebration today,” Ebenezer shared on social media. She described a collaborative process, with the Duchess actively involved in selecting outfits and creating a welcoming environment. “My favorite part was definitely working together on outfit choices,” she added.

It’s understood that Sophie was drawn to Ebenezer’s distinctive photographic style and her status as a rising female artist. Ebenezer, a Nigerian-born, London-based photographer, has received accolades as a British Fashion Council New Wave Creative and a Forbes 30 Under 30 Arts & Culture Leader. Her portraits of Wright and Coel, stars of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, were displayed at the National Portrait Gallery in collaboration with Chanel in early 2024.

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The official birthday portraits, released by King Charles and Queen Camilla’s office via social media, showcase the Duchess in three distinct looks: a black top with a white pleated skirt, a white coat over a brown turtleneck and green pants, and a beige ensemble beneath a green tree. The accompanying caption highlighted Sophie’s renewed commitment to her work in gender equality as she enters her 60s.

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While Sophie and Prince Edward do not have their own social media presence, their royal engagements and activities are shared through the official accounts of King Charles and Queen Camilla.

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The Duchess celebrated her milestone birthday privately at home with Prince Edward, as their children, Lady Louise Windsor and James, Earl of Wessex, are currently away at university and boarding school, respectively. The family’s last public appearance together was at the Christmas gathering in Sandringham. A close friend describes Sophie as a “trailblazer” within the Royal Family for her commitment to often overlooked causes.

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In 2024, Sophie made history as the first British royal to visit Ukraine since the start of the Russian conflict. She has also been a vocal advocate for breaking down the stigma surrounding menopause.

“She is almost a trailblazer in the royal family,” a royal insider commented, praising Sophie for addressing topics traditionally considered taboo. This willingness to champion underrepresented voices is deeply appreciated, the source added.

The Duchess of Edinburgh actively supports over 70 charities and organizations, dedicating her efforts to gender equality, raising awareness about the impact of conflict on women and girls, preventing avoidable blindness, and advocating for individuals with disabilities.