The youngest child of the Prince and Princess of Wales, Prince Louis, recently celebrated his seventh birthday, marking a delightful occasion that captured the hearts of many. Proud parents, Kate Middleton and Prince William, took to social media to share their joy, posting a charming new photograph and a lively video clip that showcased Louis’s exuberant personality. The video, filled with candid moments, highlighted the young prince’s infectious energy as he gleefully interacted with the camera, even declaring, “I can jump down from there!” before demonstrating his adventurous spirit by leaping off a log.
A departure from tradition
This year’s birthday celebration for Louis not only featured the usual heartfelt wishes but also introduced subtle yet significant deviations from royal norms. Traditionally, the royal family shares new photographs of their children on their birthdays, but Louis’s celebration stood out for a couple of reasons. Notably, the young prince was dressed in an olive green v-neck sweater layered over a collared shirt, paired with full-length blue jeans. This choice of attire is particularly noteworthy, as boys in British aristocracy typically wear short pants until they reach the age of eight, a practice rooted in historical customs known as “breeching.” The decision to dress Louis in trousers signifies a milestone in his maturity, subtly hinting at a shift in royal fashion standards.
Photography by a new lens
Another intriguing aspect of this birthday celebration is the choice of photographer. While Kate Middleton is renowned for her passion for photography, often capturing her children’s milestones, this year’s portrait was taken by Josh Shinner. This marks a departure from the norm, as Kate has been the creative force behind Louis’s previous birthday portraits. The decision to enlist Shinner, who also photographed the Wales family’s 2023 holiday card, adds a fresh perspective to the family’s visual narrative. His previous work has been described as relaxed and enjoyable, suggesting a comfortable atmosphere during the shoot.
The significance of the celebration
Prince Louis’s seventh birthday serves as a reminder of the evolving nature of royal traditions. The blend of modernity with historical customs reflects a family that is both rooted in tradition and open to change. As the youngest member of the royal family, Louis embodies the spirit of youth and joy, and his birthday celebration is a testament to the love and creativity that his parents bring to their roles. As the world watches, the Prince and Princess of Wales continue to navigate the delicate balance between royal expectations and personal expression, making each celebration uniquely their own.