Royal Photographer Chris Jackson Shares Queen Elizabeth's Unexpected Wisdom on Imperfect Moments
The name Chris Jackson might not immediately ring a bell, but his work certainly will. As a respected royal photographer for Getty Images, Jackson has captured some of the most iconic and memorable photographs of the British royal family over recent years. From the joyous 2011 wedding day exit of Prince William and Princess Catherine from Westminster Abbey to the elegant 70th birthday portrait of King Charles III, his lens has documented history in the making.
A Front-Row Seat to History and Surprising Royal Advice
In a revealing interview with the Daily Mail, Jackson discussed how his unique position has granted him an unparalleled view of numerous historic occasions. He also shared a surprising piece of on-the-job advice he once received directly from the late Queen Elizabeth II. When describing the behind-the-scenes reality of royal photography, Jackson explained that "things don't always go to plan, which is quite fun."
"I remember Queen Elizabeth told me that she quite liked it when things didn't go to plan," Jackson recalled. He recounted various examples witnessed over his career, ranging from simple mishaps like an umbrella turning inside out to more significant moments involving communication misunderstandings between the monarch and international world leaders.
"It's all part of it," Jackson said. "And I think people like the Queen and now the King are very adept at handling these moments and making sure things never feel awkward for their hosts or the people they're meeting."
The Unpredictable Nature of Royal Photography
Jackson emphasized that one of the aspects he most appreciates about royal photography is its inherent unpredictability. "It really is about what's happening right in front of you - and some of it is out of your control," he explained. "Not being able to control what you're capturing heightens the sense of anticipation and excitement. There's this feeling of not knowing what could happen next."
This philosophy is beautifully illustrated in his work, including the memorable 2022 portrait of Queen Elizabeth II at Sandringham and the charming 2022 Trooping the Colour image featuring Prince Louis covering his ears.
Modern Majesty: A Photographic Collection
The Getty photographer has recently published his book, Modern Majesty, which will be available online from April 16 and in physical stores from June 16. Priced at $125, the collection features his most memorable royal photographs alongside never-before-seen images. Compiling the book provided Jackson with an opportunity to reflect on his most significant work.
Among the standout images is the powerful photograph of Princess Catherine sitting alone in a car wearing a mask during Prince Philip's funeral in 2021. Taken outside Windsor Castle amid COVID-19 restrictions, this striking and emotionally charged image captures both a unique moment in world history and a period of transition for the royal family.
"The picture of Catherine with the mask at the Duke of Edinburgh's funeral seems to resonate with people. I've had a lot of comments on it," Jackson noted. "I'm not a big fan of photographing people in masks, because often it hides emotion. But for this particular photo, it was unique, because you felt like there was something being said through her eyes, and the fact she had a mask on kind of isolated her eyes in that moment."
Jackson expressed particular satisfaction with the editorial decision to release the image in black and white. "I think it's very stark. It's very emotional," he reflected. "It's something that resonates with people, and I think perhaps they see it as symbolic of the future."
Capturing Joy and Historical Significance
At the opposite emotional spectrum, Jackson fondly remembers capturing the radiant faces of newlyweds William and Catherine immediately after their wedding ceremony. "Again, it's capturing a moment in history. That's what makes this job so unique," he said.
"It's not about it being a 'great' photo, it's about catching a moment. A good royal photo is that moment in history, and it will become part of the archive, to be examined and referred to for decades to come."
Insights into Royal Personalities
Years of working as a trusted photographer have allowed Jackson to develop insights into the personalities of senior royal family members. "I have such great memories of photographing Queen Elizabeth, and I was lucky enough to do some official portraits of her. She was incredible and iconic, with an amazing presence," he shared.
"Time moves on and now we've got King Charles and Queen Camilla - and I do a lot of work with them. I love working with the current queen - she's got a wonderful sense of humour, is fantastic to photograph and always positive. The king is great at meeting people - he forms an immediate connection and has obviously got very good at it over the years. He's very warm and always has a great sense of humour."
Jackson also spoke positively about his experiences with the next generation of royal leaders. "William - I've really enjoyed working with him on Earthshot events particularly because he's super passionate about that. It's really grown into something incredible. I've watched him grow into a global statesman and grow within his role, which has been great to see."
"And with Catherine, people always talk a lot about her style, but she's also deeply passionate about the advocacy she does on the early years of childhood."
Through his remarkable career, Chris Jackson has not only documented royal history but has also gained unique perspectives on the individuals who shape it, all while embracing the imperfect moments that make his photographs truly memorable.
