The Prince and Princess of Wales are known for their iconic family portraits. From the sweet shot of William, Kate and their kids sitting in a meadow of daisies, to the classic black and white studio offering, the images present a wholesome family concept to the world. And now, the photographer behind the beloved snaps has shared how he takes the perfect shot — and is sharing his top tips to budding creatives, too.
Joshua Shinner, who was also behind the Wales' 2025 Christmas card photo, spoke to The Telegraph about his methods. He explained: "It can feel like a rigmarole to take a family picture, so people rush and they look bad."
However, "that's not to say it needs to be complicated," he continued, adding: "Some of my favourite pictures are the most informal. You're trying to capture a moment. If it's a Christmas Day to look back on, that's perfect, you don't need all the gear and knowledge."
In addition to the chill vibes, Shinner says capturing the image doesn't need to take all day, either. He says it's about creating the most relaxed atmosphere so the people in front of the camera can be themselves. "If you can make people feel at ease, they can open up, which creates a better picture."
Regardless of whether you're royal or not, Shinner adds that when you're photographing your own family, you have the biggest possible advantage in that you know these people. So his top tip? Make it comfortable. "Don't do it 10 minutes before Christmas dinner; don't take hours over it."
The next pro photographer tip is that only a few camera angles will work. One of which is using different levels to position each person — think Kate and William's pic this year, with Prince George in the forefront, Kate sitting further back and higher, and William slightly in front and lower. Then, Princess Charlotte on an angle, cuddling her dad, while Prince Louis sits between his legs.
Shinner's final piece of advice? "When everyone thinks you've finished, take one more," which is how you often get the most natural photo. He concludes: "Maybe everyone lets their face slip, and you get that authentic moment. I often take one or two frames after I've ‘finished,' just because people — even if they don't think they are — are holding themselves slightly differently, and that turns out to be everyone's favourite picture."
Sophie Williams is a Freelance Journalist and Copywriter, covering everything from Fashion to Entertainment to music, Lifestyle and Features. She has interviewed a range of musical artists and authors including Alyssa Edwards, Courtney Barnett, Confidence Man, The Vaccines, Loyle Carner, Gabrielle, and John Niven, and has written for publications like Metro, Reader's Digest, ITV's Woo! and Vice’s NBGA. She is also working on a book for HarperCollins about Taylor Swift, due to be published in 2024.
