Prince Louis’ new birthday photo hints at quiet change in royal family tradition

Prince Louis’ latest birthday portrait has sparked speculation about a subtle shift in royal family tradition.

The picture, shared to mark Louis turning 8 on April 23, showed him smiling by the seaside which is believed to be in Norfolk where the royal family often spends time.

However, former royal butler Grant Harrold revealed he was surprised the photo did not appear to be taken by Louis’ mother, Kate Middleton, who has become known for personally capturing and releasing many of her children’s birthday portraits in recent years.

Harrold said the change behind the camera hints at a quiet departure from the couple’s usual approach while speaking with The Mirror.

“We know that Kate and William love being by the sea, so I’m not surprised they shared a photo of him from the seaside,” the expert said.

They added, “I imagine it’s in Norfolk. It’s obviously somewhere quite special for them. But I’m surprised the photo hasn’t been taken by Kate, as has become their most common approach.”

Speaking of his future role in the royal family, he said, “Louis is the King’s grandson, and will one day be the son of the Monarch.

“Changes in the laws surrounding the line of succession mean he sits behind Princess Charlotte, so he’s fourth in line to the throne and it’s very unlikely that he will ever be King.

“So there isn’t as much pressure on him as there is on his older brother, George, who will be very aware of his future role by now.”