Kate Middleton’s Supposed Inspiration for Prince George’s Birthday Portrait Could Explain Why It’s So Different From His Siblings’ Photos

Prince George’s birthday portrait has been getting a lot of attention for a lot of reasons. The 11-year-old prince looks so grown up, he’s wearing an accessory that a beloved pop star might have inspired, and because people think they may know where mom Kate Middleton got her inspiration for the stunning photo. (Yes, she took it herself!)

People are noticing the stark similarities between Prince George’s birthday portrait and the birthday portrait of Crown Prince Christian of Denmark. When the Crown Prince turned 18 last year, the photo showed him sitting in a suit. His body was turned to the side, his hands were clasped in his lap, and his face looked straight at the camera. Just like Prince George.

Sure, Crown Prince Christian — son of King Frederik and Queen Mary — was not wearing a friendship bracelet and had a much more subtle smile than Prince George, but it’s certainly possible Middleton drew inspiration from the photo.

Middleton (and/or the British royal family at large) might have seen the future King of Denmark in a smart suit looking regal yet approachable and thought Prince George, who is second in line to the British throne, should take on a similar air. It would explain why his birthday portrait was so different from his siblings’ pictures.

Princess Charlotte, 9 and Prince Louis, 6 celebrated their birthdays earlier this year, and both had a more casual vibe with a barefoot Prince Louis laying on the grass in a plaid button down and Princess Charlotte leaning against a floral bush in a sweater, cardigan, and denim skirt.

It’s quite possible one’s place in the line of succession determines the style of their photo, but we’re glad to see that even if the 11-year-old future monarch is getting more and more prepared for his birthright, he still looks like the regular tween he is — with his charming and boyish grin and a friendship bracelet on full display.