Hidden message in Kate Middleton and Prince William's pointed glance at huge royal event

A top royal photographer has examined a very telling look the Prince and Princess of Wales shared at Trooping the Colour - and it says a great deal about the couple

The Prince and Princess of Wales shared a telling look as they stepped out for a major event - and it spoke volumes, according to a royal photographer.

In June 2024, Princess Kate returned to the public eye for the first time since announcing her cancer diagnosis, to take part in the Trooping the Colour celebrations.

Her return made headlines around the world and Kate was met with an outpouring of love as she joined the Royal Family for the King's official birthday, watching the military parade with her three children before a highly-anticipated appearance on the balcony of Buckingham Palace.

It was then that she was reunited with William, who had taken part in the parade, and the couple exchanged a lingering look that didn't go unnoticed by royal watchers.

Speaking on HELLO!'s A Right Royal Podcast, royal photographer James Whatling spoke about the sweet moment. Asked about his favourite image from the day, he replied: "It's the look between William and Kate.

"It happened over quite a few frames, it wasn't fleeting. They're obviously a very strong unit. You can look at the minutiae of it, because you're taking 20 frames a second and so it goes from a little look and then Kate's smile broadens, and it's lovely, it's very much a 'welcome back', 'it's good to have you back'."

According to reports, Kate felt it was important to make her return at the Trooping the Colour because of her three young children, and her father-in-law King Charles, who was also having cancer treatment.

"In order for the youngsters to be there and play a full role - riding in a carriage on The Mall, watching proceedings on Horse Guards and joining the family 'balcony moment' - Mummy needed to be there too to keep the 'kiddies' (as she calls her young brood) in check as Papa [ Prince William ] was on horseback," the Daily Mail 's royal editor Rebecca English said at the time.

"For Kate, there was also a determination to support the father-in-law she has become increasingly close to over the years and with whom she now shares the unenviable bond of a serious health battle. "

Prior to her announcement that she would be at Trooping, royal sources confirmed the princess had personally spoken to the King and informed him of her wish to join him and the royal family for the parade. A spokesperson for the King said His Majesty was "delighted" by the news of her attendance.

Happily, three months after her appearance, Kate shared the news that she had completed her course of chemotherapy.

She revealed the news in an intimate video featuring the Wales family at their Norfolk retreat, Anmer Hall, with Catherine's touching voiceover providing insight into their personal challenges.

She said: "As the summer comes to an end, I cannot tell you what a relief it is to have finally completed my chemotherapy treatment. The last nine months have been incredibly tough for us as a family. Life as you know it can change in an instant and we have had to find a way to navigate the stormy waters and road unknown. The cancer journey is complex, scary and unpredictable for everyone, especially those closest to you.

"With humility, it also brings you face to face with your own vulnerabilities in a way you have never considered before, and with that, a new perspective on everything. This time has above all reminded William and me to reflect and be grateful for the simple yet important things in life, which so many of us often take for granted. Of simply loving and being loved."

She added: "William and I are so grateful for the support we have received and have drawn great strength from all those who are helping us at this time. Everyone's kindness, empathy and compassion has been truly humbling. To all those who are continuing their own cancer journey I remain with you, side by side, hand in hand. Out of darkness, can come light so let that light shine bright."