New coronation image and modern approach highlight how the monarch is reshaping the Royal Family
King Charles has introduced noticeable changes to the way the Royal Family operates, marking a shift from the traditions followed during Queen Elizabeth’s reign.
While the King continues to honour the legacy of his late mother, Queen Elizabeth, he has also shown a clear desire to shape the monarchy in his own way. That difference became evident from the very beginning of his reign, particularly during his coronation.
A striking photograph taken on coronation day captured that sense of change. Royal photographer Chris Jackson, who has documented royal events for more than two decades, spoke to Vanity Fair about the image, which appears on the cover of his book Modern Monarchy: The British Royal Family Today. The photograph shows King Charles and Queen Camilla in full regalia, but from an unusual perspective.
Jackson explained that the photo was taken from behind the royal couple as they stood on the Buckingham Palace balcony, looking out over the crowds gathered around the Victoria Memorial and beyond.
According to him, that type of behind-the-scenes perspective would never have been permitted during Queen Elizabeth’s reign.
Capturing the moment from behind the King and Queen placed viewers directly in their position, offering a view of the cheering crowds as they experienced it themselves. The photographer said the image reflects a more open and modern approach to royal storytelling.
He also noted that, since King Charles ascended the throne, there has been a noticeable shift in how certain royal moments are presented. In his view, the monarch has approached aspects of the role differently from his mother, introducing subtle changes that modernise the institution while still respecting tradition.
Jackson said the title of his book was chosen carefully to reflect this transition. Modern Monarchy, he explained, represents a Royal Family that continues to honour its heritage while gradually adapting to a more contemporary and accessible style.
The coronation ceremony itself also demonstrated the King’s approach. Unlike the three-hour ceremony held when Queen Elizabeth was crowned in 1953, King Charles opted for a much shorter event that lasted about an hour.
Former British Prime Minister Sir John Major previously praised the King’s outlook, describing him as someone who believes in gradual evolution rather than dramatic upheaval. Writing in Country Life, Major said Charles is focused on serving the common good and bringing people together during uncertain times.
The idea of adapting while respecting tradition is not entirely new within the monarchy. Prince William once noted that Queen Elizabeth herself encouraged younger members of the family to carry out their duties in their own style.
In the documentary Our Queen at Ninety, he explained that she always supported a new generation bringing its own approach to royal responsibilities. According to him, modernising the Royal Family helps ensure it remains relevant and engaging for the public.
With King Charles now firmly at the helm, that balance between tradition and gradual change appears set to continue shaping the monarchy in the years ahead.
