Prince Louis shows big smile in new photo + Official christening photos

Prince Louis was in a playful mood after he was christened earlier this month. Kensington Palace has released official photos from his christening, with one showing the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s youngest child fully awake and giggling.

The fifth in line to the throne was christened in Chapel Royal at St James’s Palace on July 9, with many of the royals from his father’s side and non-royals from his mother’s side present. His great-grandparents, Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip, couldn’t make it, though.

Several days following the celebration, the Kensington Palace has finally released the official photographs of the event. There have been five images released so far, with perhaps the most standout is the one with Louis’ big toothless grin as he is being carried by a smiling Kate Middleton. The image, taken by photographer Matt Porteous, is a rare treat for the public as it’s the first one that features a non-sleeping Louis. It was released a few hours after the first four were shared online.

The rest of the images were shot by photographer Matt Holyoak. The first one also shows a wide-awake Louis with his mum, but in a less candid shot. Another includes dad Prince William and his older siblings Prince George and Princess Charlotte.

The fourth one has uncle Prince Harry and aunt Meghan Markle, as well as grandparents Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall. Although the Queen wasn’t able to attend the service because of her busy schedule, she still found a way to be included in the family photo. In this photo, her portrait (1972-1973) was in the background just behind Harry.

The fifth photo is more complete, still without Her Majesty and the Duke of Edinburgh, but now with mum Kate’s side of the family. There’s grandparents Michael and Carole Middleton, aunt Pippa and husband James Matthews, and uncle James Middleton.