Renowned royal photographer Chris Jackson has shed light on a pivotal moment in the history of the British monarchy, emphasising the modernisation of royal traditions under King Charles III. As he promotes his latest publication, *Modern Majesty: The British Royal Family Today*, Jackson reflects on how the approach has evolved since the reign of the late Queen Elizabeth II.
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Speaking to *Vanity Fair*, Jackson, who has dedicated over two decades to photographing the British royal family, described a particular image from King Charles and Queen Camilla’s coronation that he feels embodies this shift. The photograph, which captures the couple on the balcony of Buckingham Palace, was taken from behind—a perspective Jackson believes would not have been permitted during the previous monarch’s reign.
Jackson stated that the significance of the image from the coronation day on 6 May 2023 extends beyond its aesthetic appeal. “We all remember Queen Elizabeth II, an iconic figure who was revered and respected around the world,” he remarked. “But since King Charles ascended to the throne, there has been a noticeable departure from the previous norms.”
The photographer elaborated on how King Charles has embraced a different dynamic in his role, opting for a more inclusive and relatable approach. “The title of my book captures the essence of the royal family moving forward—honouring tradition while also adopting a more open and contemporary stance,” Jackson explained.
During the coronation, which followed the passing of Queen Elizabeth just seven months earlier, Jackson’s image of the 77-year-old King and his 78-year-old wife quickly became one of the defining photographs of the day. Jackson contrasted the personalities of the late Queen and her successors, noting how each royal brings distinct qualities to their roles.
“Queen Elizabeth possessed an extraordinary sense of calm and duty paired with subtle humour. In contrast, King Charles demonstrates a profound curiosity, warmth, and intellectual engagement,” Jackson articulated. He added that Prince William merges responsible leadership with an approachable demeanor, especially appealing to younger audiences, a method that allows him to connect meaningfully during public engagements.
Jackson did not overlook the contributions of the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton. He described her charm and accessibility, noting her ability to relate to the public, particularly younger people. “The Princess of Wales has a warmth and friendliness that resonates with many. She’s known for extending her interactions, ensuring she meets as many people as possible during public walks,” he said.
With an impressive portfolio that includes prior works such as *Modern Monarchy: The British Royal Family Today* and *Elizabeth II: A Queen for Our Time*, Jackson’s latest offering provides a comprehensive look at the state of the British monarchy in contemporary society. He revealed that capturing these nuances and individual characteristics of royal family members is crucial for producing authentic imagery.
The engagement of King Charles and Queen Camilla with society, according to Jackson, underscores their ability to connect with diverse segments of the population. “They possess a remarkable talent for relating to different parts of society—an aspect that I have always found fascinating to photograph,” he stressed.
As the British monarchy navigates changing societal expectations, Jackson’s insights reveal a transformation that not only respects the monarchy’s rich traditions but also embraces a more modern ethos. Through *Modern Majesty*, he hopes to highlight this ongoing evolution, showcasing how the royal family is adapting to a world that beckons for greater authenticity and connection.
For those intrigued by royal affairs and looking to explore the nuances of modern royalty, Jackson’s work serves as an enlightening lens into a family committed to both heritage and change. With the portrait of a royal family bridging past traditions and future possibilities, Jackson reaffirms the importance of photography in documenting this historic transition.