Prince George’s 2nd birthday of July 22, 2015, was marked by the release of a photograph taken by Mario Testino (above right) of the royal toddler and his proud father the Duke of Cambridge in the grounds of Sandringham Estate. A spokesman for Kensington Palace said: “This photograph captures a very happy moment on what was a special day for the Duke and Duchess and their family. They are very pleased to share this picture as they celebrate Prince George’s second birthday.”
Having Mario Testino, best known for his iconic portraits of Diana, Princess of Wales, commemorate the day was another reminder that Prince William’s late mother is never far from his thoughts. However, George’s birthday photo was more in the current social media style than a formal photograph, which still showcased Testino’s ability to bring out the personality of his subjects and was a nice contrast to the formal portraits the Duchess of Cambridge released of Prince George and Princess Charlotte.
However, the highlight for Prince George was a birthday party the following day with a dozen toddlers at the family home Anmer Hall. Prince William took the day off from his job as an east Anglia Air Ambulance pilot to join his son. George’s grandmother, Carole Middleton, and his great-grandfather, the Duke of Edinburgh, were also on hand to join in the fun.
