In December 2017, the world got its first official glimpse of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s love story captured in timeless photographs. Just weeks after announcing their engagement, the couple released a series of portraits that immediately went viral, combining royal tradition with Hollywood glamour.
The photoshoot took place at Kensington Palace’s Sunken Garden and Frogmore House, a location already steeped in royal history. Fashion photographer Alexi Lubomirski—handpicked for the occasion—delivered three portraits that managed to be both regal and intimate.
The first image, released by Kensington Palace, shows Harry and Meghan sitting on the steps of Frogmore House, wrapped in a cozy embrace. Meghan’s hand rests lightly on Harry’s knee, the dazzling three-stone diamond engagement ring gleaming in full view. Designed by Harry himself, the ring featured a central stone from Botswana—a place deeply significant to their relationship—flanked by two diamonds from Princess Diana’s personal collection.
The second photograph, in black and white, captures a laughing Harry gazing adoringly at Meghan, the ring once again a focal point. It radiates warmth and spontaneity, breaking away from stiff formality often associated with royal portraits.
Lubomirski later posted a third shot to his Instagram, showing Meghan’s full outfit: a dramatic black Ralph & Russo gown with a ruffled tulle skirt. The couture look, paired with Harry’s understated suit, emphasized their balance of tradition and modernity.
In his caption, Lubomirski expressed gratitude: “A huge thank you to His Royal Highness Prince Harry and Ms. Markle, for allowing me to take their official engagement portraits. Not only was it an incredible honor, but also an immense privilege to witness their love. I cannot help but smile when I look at these photos.”
The release of the portraits capped off a whirlwind December for Meghan. Just a day earlier, she joined Harry, Prince William, and Kate Middleton for the Queen’s annual Christmas lunch at Buckingham Palace, introducing her more deeply into royal family traditions. The following week, she was expected to join the royals at Sandringham for a more intimate Christmas gathering — a highly symbolic step for a future royal bride.
More than just engagement pictures, the portraits symbolized the beginning of a new chapter for the monarchy: one blending the formality of centuries-old tradition with the authenticity of a love story that had already captivated the world.
