Long-time royal photographer Arthur Edwards has shared his reflections on the British monarchy in a recent interview, coinciding with the release of his new memoir, *Cup of Tea, Arthur? My Extraordinary 50 Years Photographing the Royal Family.* The book encapsulates Edwards’ five decades of experience capturing moments with the royal family, from the early days of Prince Charles to the present day with King Charles III and his grandchildren.
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In a conversation with *The Telegraph*, Edwards expressed his delight regarding Prince Harry’s recent return to the United Kingdom. The Duke of Sussex, alongside his wife Meghan Markle and their children, relocated back to Britain in August, and Edwards welcomes this move, believing it is a step toward healing familial rifts. Furthermore, he has emphasised the importance of the couple’s children, Prince Archie, seven, and Princess Lilibet, five, receiving royal protection, asserting that they deserve the opportunity to grow up in proximity to their royal relatives.
Edwards has enjoyed a front-row seat to the evolution of the royals, having begun his career at *The Sun* in the 1970s. Over the years, he has captured moments that highlight not only the glamour of royal life but also its unpredictable nature. One notable anecdote recounts a confrontation with Princess Diana and Prince Charles, which ended with Edwards famously shouting, “At least I’ve got a job!” as the royal heir rode away.
Although he has enjoyed close relationships with many royals, Edwards noted that Prince William had a notably antagonistic viewpoint towards the media during his youth. In contrast, Prince Harry thrived on the attention, often engaging playfully with those capturing his image. Edwards recalled how Harry would cheekily poke his tongue out, showcasing a spirited personality that many have come to love.
Despite being a long-time admirer of the Duke, Edwards struggled to engage with Harry’s 2023 memoir, *Spare*, due to what he deemed inaccuracies. Nevertheless, he acknowledged Harry’s sentiments regarding perceived neglect in favour of his elder brother. An illustrative moment on a beach in Norfolk comes to mind, where a nanny fussed over William while Harry was momentarily overlooked, highlighting the dynamics often at play within the family.
While expressing concerns over the critical tone taken by Harry in his writings regarding family matters, Edwards remains optimistic about Harry’s role within the royal family. He believes that with time and a commitment to family duties, a reconciliation may be possible. “I hope he gets involved,” he stated, highlighting Harry’s potential to flourish again.
Edwards also conveyed his admiration for Prince William’s development as the Prince of Wales and his roles as a father. He finds it heartening that William encourages his children to recognise friendly faces like Edwards among the press during public engagements. Edwards views this as an important step in fostering a supportive environment for the younger generation of royals.
When discussing the future of the monarchy, Edwards expressed positive sentiments regarding King Charles III. He has observed the King’s evolution from a figure in waiting to the monarch, describing him as a tireless worker who embraces his royal responsibilities. “He does embrace the job better than anybody,” Edwards remarked, noting the King’s relentless dedication to his duties.
In terms of the younger royals, Edwards expressed a strong desire for Archie and Lilibet to have the opportunity to experience their heritage. He questioned the decision to have them attend an American school, suggesting that they would benefit more from playing with their cousins in the United Kingdom. The discussion around their royal protection further underscores the challenges faced by the family as they navigate safety concerns in the modern age.
As Edwards reflects on his extraordinary journey photographing the royal family, he is left with a sense of gratitude. Engaging with the likes of King Charles III over the years has not only shaped his career but also provided him with a unique insight into the complexities of royal life. With his loyal perspective, Edwards remains an invaluable witness to history, chronicling the evolving narrative of the British monarchy through his lens.