William and Kate just released their Christmas card, and to be honest, something about it felt familiar. Kensington Palace shared the image on Thursday, showing the five of them posing as a happy family with the English countryside in the background, all dressed in earthy tones and forest green.
Very nice, very rustic, very them. But when I saw Louis with that gap between his teeth and George wearing that vest I’d seen before, I realized these photos weren’t new. They’re from April, from a session they did in Norfolk, their favorite retreat.
“Wishing everyone a very Happy Christmas”, was the text accompanying the photograph.
It’s not the first time they’ve recycled material, but this time it was quite obvious. The photo of Louis missing his front teeth was already used for his birthday months ago, featuring the same outfit and that irresistible, gap-toothed smile.
George is also wearing the same vest he wore in his 12th birthday photos. Photographer John Shinner made good use of that session at Anmer Hall, capturing several angles that have served them well on various occasions.
Kate, who usually takes the family photos, this time left the job to a professional.
The dress code is clear: country attire for everyone. William and Louis are dressed identically in olive green sweaters and jeans, as if they were a father and son duo.
George already looks like an adult in that vest, while Charlotte wears a patterned sweater that gives her a more relaxed look.
Kate is the only one who deviates slightly from the color scheme, wearing a plaid skirt, a dark sweater, and a white blouse with ruffles peeking out from the neckline. Nothing outlandish, just enough to stand out without clashing.
What matters is where these photos were taken. Anmer Hall, a wedding gift from Elizabeth II, is the true emotional home of this family. That’s where they go when they want to disconnect from protocol, where the children can run free and Kate can practice her outdoor parenting philosophy outdoors without prying eyes.
Norfolk holds a special sentimental value for the Windsors, much like Sandringham, their long-standing Christmas home. Elizabeth II has spent every December there, and this year they will reunite once again.
So yes, the photos may be from months ago, but it’s a lovely family picture.