A family photo released for Mother's Day is at the center of a royal row sparked by concerns it has been “doctored”.
The photograph of Kate Middleton and her three children, George, Charlotte and Louis, was published on Sunday, but was later removed by news agencies after apparent errors were detected in the image.
The palace initially declined to comment, but on Monday the Princess of Wales apologized and admitted editing what was the first official photograph of her since she underwent abdominal surgery in January. The photo is said to have been taken by Prince William in Windsor this week and shows his mother smiling surrounded by her children.
A family photo posted by the Princess of Wales to mark Mother's Day sparked widespread speculation about editing flaws before it was removed by major news agencies citing fears of manipulation.
(EPA)
However, just hours after it was posted on social media, royal fans pointed out several editing errors, including that the sleeve of Princess Charlotte's cardigan was misaligned.
In an Instagram post on Monday morning, the princess said: “Like many amateur photographers, I experiment with editing from time to time. I wanted to express my apologies for any confusion caused by the family photo we shared yesterday. I hope everyone celebrating had a very happy Mother's Day. C.”
However, the princess has not confirmed what edits were made and Kensington Palace said it would not republish the original unedited photograph despite her apology.
Here, we take a look at the flaws that have been detected in the photo.
Areas of concern cited by photography agencies
Associated Press (AP), Agence France-Presse (AFP), EPA, Getty, Reuters and the UK's main news agency PA are among those who have so far recalled the photo.
Concerns have been raised over the sleeve of Princess Charlotte's cardigan, which does not appear to line up in the photo.
(EPA)
The AFP and AP news agencies said The independent Concerns raised about the sleeve of Princess Charlotte's cardigan, which does not appear to line up in the photo, contributed to the decision to remove the image.
Eric Baradat, AFP director of photography, said that “for any experienced digital image professional it is clear that it has been manipulated” and added: “It has been done in a very amateur way.”
Baradat also highlighted Kate's zipper, which does not appear to line up in the photo, and claimed that modifications had also been made to the princess's face, sweater, hair and skirt. He also pointed out apparent “alterations” to the sweaters worn by Prince Louis and George.
Kate's zipper doesn't seem to line up in the photo.
(EPA)
Baradat said he saw copying and pasting, as well as blurring, and called the edits “very crude and visible.”
In its advisory issued to the media on Sunday, AP said: “On closer inspection, it appears that the source has manipulated the image. No replacement photos will be sent.”
Editing flaws suggested by real fans
Royal fans have pointed out that the princess's wedding ring does not appear to be on her finger.
(EPA)
There has been a lot of speculation online from royal fans suggesting other possible problems with the image.
It has been pointed out that the princess's wedding ring does not appear to be on her finger, while Louis' fingers appear to be in an unusual position.
The trees in the background appear to be in full bloom when it is only March, others have noted.
Others have questioned the white plinth behind the family at the bottom left of the image, which appears to be crooked.
