The Prince and Princess of Wales/Instagram
However, after the photo was shared with the public on social media, viewers began to express concerns that the image seemed edited or even AI-generated. News agencies worldwide — including the Associated Press, Getty Images, Reuters and the AFP — removed the photos from their press libraries, citing concerns about manipulation.
AP issued a “kill notification” for anyone using the photo, writing inan alert to journalists that after“closer inspection it appears that the source has manipulated the image. No replacement photo will be sent.”
An AP spokesperson released a statement toThe Telegraph, saying, “The photo shows an inconsistency in the alignment of Princess Charlotte’s left hand.”
Others have also noted inconsistencies in the alignment of the sweater pattern on Prince Louis' shoulder, as well as a jagged white line in the background near his knee.
“No comment from Kensington Palace tonight after at least 3 international pictures agencies refuse to distribute this morning’s photo of Kate and her children,” Ship wrote.
PEOPLE has reached out to Kensington Palace for comment.
The drama surrounding the Mother’s Day photo comes amid questions about Princess Kate’sabsence from the public eyeafter her “planned abdominal surgery" in January.
She remained at a London hospital until Jan. 29, whenshe returned home to continue her recovery. The initial statement from the palace said she was “unlikely to return to public duties until after Easter,” following medical advice.
source: people.com
