William and Catherine all smiles in Valentine's Day photograph
BBC World
February 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
William and Catherine, the Prince and Princess of Wales, have shared an unpublished black-and-white photograph to celebrate Valentine's Day. The image, taken in April 2023 by photographer Josh Shinner in Anmer, Norfolk, features William kissing Catherine on the cheek while she smiles. Posted on their social media with a "Happy Valentine's Day" caption and a heart emoji, this marks the couple’s second consecutive year releasing a Valentine’s-themed photo, following last year’s similar gesture.
The decision to release such images reflects the couple’s ongoing efforts to connect with the public in a more personal and accessible way. By marking Valentine’s Day digitally, they align with modern trends while maintaining their royal image. The choice of a black-and-white photo adds a nostalgic touch, contrasting with today’s heavily commercialized celebrations. This approach allows them to showcase their relationship privately yet publicly, balancing tradition with contemporary engagement.
The couple previously shared a family portrait in last year’s Christmas card, taken by the same photographer in Norfolk. Their use of Shinner highlights their support for British talent while maintaining a consistent visual style across their public imagery. By marking Valentine’s Day annually and opting for simple yet heartfelt gestures, William and Catherine reinforce their image as a modern, relatable royal couple.
This Valentine’s photo, like last year’s, underscores the importance of personal connection in their public roles. It not only strengthens their bond publicly but also aligns with broader trends of using social media to share intimate moments. Such actions matter politically, as they help shape perceptions of the monarchy’s relevance and adaptability in a changing world. By embracing modern communication methods while respecting traditional values, William and Catherine continue to navigate their roles as both royals and modern individuals.
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/14/2026