Christmas cards from the British royal family are usually defined by familiar traditions—winter scenery, festive colors, and a formal tone. That’s why the 2025 Christmas card from Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, quickly drew attention. The image, released ahead of the holidays, shows the couple with their three children in a relaxed outdoor setting that feels personal and unposed. While many praised the warmth of the photograph, others noted how different it felt from the traditional royal Christmas look.
Shared via official Kensington Palace channels, the photo features the family seated on a grassy field in Norfolk, surrounded by greenery and flowers. Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis appear comfortable and close to their parents, creating a natural, intimate moment. The message accompanying the card is simple: “Wishing everyone a very Happy Christmas.” Despite the classic greeting, online discussion quickly focused on what was missing—there were no winter elements, holiday decorations, or festive clothing.
Much of the conversation centered on timing. The photograph was taken in April by photographer Josh Shinner during a spring photoshoot, which explains the seasonal setting. Reactions ranged from lighthearted commentary to criticism from those who prefer a more traditional holiday-themed card. Others welcomed the change, calling the image timeless and authentic.
Viewed in context, the choice may be meaningful. The past year has been especially challenging for the Wales family, with Prince William describing it as one of the hardest of his life and Princess Catherine focusing on recovery following cancer treatment. From that perspective, the card’s calm, natural tone may reflect themes of peace, renewal, and family togetherness—rather than strict tradition.