This year's royal Christmas cards feature a theme of warmth and togetherness, as numerous European royal families opt for images that highlight their familial bonds. The Prince and Princess of Wales, for instance, present a relaxed card depicting their family in the Norfolk countryside, embracing a down-to-earth, casual aesthetic that distances itself from the formality of past portraits.
Comparatively, the 1969 royal Christmas card portrayed a more rigid and formal scene, with the family gathered but standing apart. Fast forward to the present, King Charles and Queen Camilla's card shows them arm in arm, taken during their state visit to Italy. Captured on the occasion of their 20th wedding anniversary, it symbolizes a blend of formality and affection.
Prince Harry and Meghan chose a festive, snowy scene for their card, taken during the Invictus Games in Canada. Despite the formal phrasing on the card, their image projects a fashionable and optimistic vibe. Meanwhile, the Belgian royals opted for a polished appearance, posing formally outside the Palace of Laeken but incorporating a touch of nature. Their multilingual greeting emphasizes inclusivity.
The Spanish royals offered a blend of spontaneity and traditional portraiture, with a casual countryside setting giving a modern twist to a classic court painting aesthetic. This evolution towards relatable and intimate imagery marks a notable shift in how these families choose to present themselves to the public during the festive season.