Kate Middleton’s Christmas Card Photographer Reveals What It Was Really Like Working with the Royal Family

We’ve always been curious about what exactly goes into capturing the *perfect* photo for the royal family’s annual Christmas card. And thanks to photographer Josh Shinner, who took the portrait for Prince William and Kate Middleton’s family holiday card this year, we now have a bit of insight.

Earlier this month on Instagram, Shinner reposted the black and white portrait (which gave major old school vibes) on his personal account. In the festive photo, Prince William, 41, and Princess Catherine, 41, are joined by their three kids, Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, 8, and Prince Louis, 5, and they’re all wearing coordinating ensembles. 

In the caption, the professional photographer shared how much he loved working with the royal family. “It was such a pleasure to photograph The Prince and Princess of Wales and their family for the Christmas portrait this year,” he wrote. 

While referring to the royal couple’s three kids, he continued, “Without [a] doubt, one of the most relaxed and enjoyable sittings I’ve ever had, and I now have a whole new set of jokes that are right on my level thanks to the children…A huge thanks to the @princeandprincessofwales for having me.” 

In a separate post, the photographer shared a sketch of what he initially thought the portrait would look like. The original drawing shows Louis and Charlotte sitting down together. But in the final photo, Charlotte is the only one sitting down in a chair, with Louis standing on her side.