Baby Tree: Royals release more new family photos

Carolyn Robertson

posted in Celebrities

Last week, the royal family gathered to celebrate the christening of their newest addition, 2-month-old Princess Charlotte.

We saw some adorable photos of the big day, including some great shots of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge arriving at the church with their new daughter and her big brother George.

Well, the palace has now released a set of official snaps from the day, and I can tell you they were worth the wait.

Shot by famed celebrity photographer Mario Testino, they aren't the overly staged, stuffy images you might be expecting. While there is a formal family portrait featuring Kate and William and the kids with Queen Elizabeth, Prince Philip, Kate's parents and siblings, the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall, there are other more intimate shots as well.

Take a look...

Oh, that picture of William and George melts me. Just look at that cute little gap-toothed grin!

The toddler's happy smile seemed to stand out to some royal watchers, who note that George has become somewhat famous for his unimpressed expressions. “The famously grumpy toddler has never given such a toothy grin for an official picture,” mused the UK's The Telegraph.

I have to confess, as mom to a child who was always somewhat grumpy in public places, it comes as a bit of a relief to see another kid who isn't constantly beaming. I think Prince George is doing just fine.

Testino, who was also a favorite photographer of William's late mother Princess Diana, later said that the royal family left quite an impression on him.

“Photographing Princess Charlotte’s christening was an amazing experience," he revealed. "What impressed me the most was the energy of the family and of that between the Duke and the Duchess. One sees how solid they are together and one gets the sense of their strong family values.”

Yes, it seems that these days everyone loves the royal family. So much so that bookies are already taking bets as to when Kate and William will announce that they're expecting baby #3 - 2016, next year, is the clear favorite so far.

Maybe we should give them a bit of a break. Two under two is tough enough - even for a royal!

Here are some more beautiful images from Princess Charlotte's christening...