For two decades, I’ve had the immense privilege of photographing the Royal Family. As we approach the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee weekend, it’s a wonderful opportunity to revisit cherished moments capturing the Queen and her family.
The Queen is, without a doubt, my favorite subject. Her aura and presence are simply incredible. What truly sets her apart is her deep understanding of the significance of her interactions with the public. For her, it might be another engagement, but for the people she meets, it’s an unforgettable experience, a moment etched in their memories.
Her vibrant attire ensures she stands out, allowing well-wishers to catch a glimpse or even shake her hand. The weight of what she represents and the profound impact she has on people is evident.
Photographing her is always an honor and a truly remarkable experience, made unique by her iconic status and the historical significance she embodies.
One particular photograph I hold dear features the Queen in a striking purple dress, her expression a touch unusual. It’s this unique quality that makes it so special.
Queen Elizabeth in a purple dress
The photo was taken during the opening of a maternity ward. The background and soft lighting create an almost studio-like quality.
What makes this image so poignant is its ordinary context. Not every engagement yields a photograph destined for the Royal Collection for decades or even centuries to come. This was a regular engagement, yet for a fleeting moment, everything aligned to create something truly extraordinary.
This encapsulates the joy of photographing the Queen. When the light is right, the backdrop perfect, and something unique happens, you might capture an image that transcends time.
As we anticipate the Platinum Jubilee weekend and the four-day bank holiday, we eagerly await numerous celebratory events.
The anniversary of her father’s passing and her accession to the throne, February 6th, is marked by an image of the Queen working on her iconic red boxes.
The Queen with her red box
Photographed at Sandringham in Norfolk, a place where she appears entirely at ease, the image conveys a sense of quiet dedication.
Trooping the Colour, marking the Queen’s official birthday, is a cornerstone event for a Royal Photographer. It’s an opportunity to witness the Royal Family gathered on the balcony, watching the parade. Year after year, it provides a fascinating glimpse into their lives, watching the children grow with the Queen at the heart of this evolving family. The expressions on their faces as the RAF flies overhead are truly priceless.
One photograph from Trooping the Colour, taken during a scaled-back event at Windsor Castle, stands out. The quadrangle provided a unique backdrop, allowing me to experiment with slow shutter speeds as soldiers marched past.
Soldiers marching past the Queen
Constraints on positioning and time often make it challenging to deviate from traditional shots, so this creative opportunity was particularly rewarding.
A favorite image featuring the Queen, Prince William, and the Duchess of Cornwall was taken during the Braemar Highland Games, an event the Queen finds incredibly relaxing.
The Queen, Prince William and the Duchess of Cornwall
The candid shot captures the moment after a tug-of-war team tumbled, sending the Queen, Prince Charles, and the Duchess into fits of laughter. It’s a genuine display of joy, a highlight from that year’s games.
Photographing the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh’s 73rd wedding anniversary at Windsor Castle was an immense honor.
The Queen and Prince Philip's 73rd wedding anniversary
Taken during a challenging period following lockdown, the image captures the Duke’s delight upon opening a card from his great-grandchildren, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. It’s a poignant reminder of the enduring strength of family, particularly resonant during a time of global hardship.
The Queen’s lifelong love for animals, especially dogs and horses, is well-documented. Images of her with her beloved corgis and dorgis reveal a source of pure happiness.
Her passion for horses is equally evident, particularly at Royal Ascot and the Windsor Horse Show. Witnessing her enthusiasm, even with recent mobility issues, is heartwarming.
As a Royal Photographer, I observe and document the Royal Family’s evolution. From royal births and christenings to national celebrations like the Diamond Jubilee, it’s a privilege to witness these milestones.
The Queen possesses an unparalleled ability to unite the nation. Her address during the pandemic, broadcast into homes across the country, offered comfort and inspiration.
The Diamond Jubilee was a testament to her enduring appeal, with the nation and Commonwealth rallying in celebration.
The Platinum Jubilee promises to be another momentous occasion, and I’m incredibly excited to capture the joy and festivities. These events are a powerful reminder of the unifying power of shared experiences, and I eagerly anticipate documenting every moment.
