How Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Know Photographer Misan Harriman
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Before the royal family Photoshop allegations, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle had trusted photographer Misan Harriman to take their family portraits for many years.
In a 2022 interview with Vogue, Harriman shared that Meghan had reminded him that if he hadn't introduced her to a mutual friend, she wouldn't have met Harry. He expressed gratitude for the small role he played in bringing them together.
Harriman's first photography session for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex took place during Meghan's second pregnancy. In February 2021, the couple shared the news of their upcoming baby, known as a rainbow baby, following a previous miscarriage. The photo announcing the pregnancy was captured by Harriman.
In an interview with Vogue, Harriman described the significance of the photo he took virtually via iPad camera during the coronavirus pandemic lockdown. He explained that the tree of life in the background and the garden symbolizing fertility represented the couple's journey forward. Harriman noted that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, as soulmates, effortlessly navigate through life together.
The photos reappeared in March 2024, three years later, when Harriman was accused of editing the images to include trees. This accusation came after Princess Kate Middleton admitted to editing her own photos earlier in the month. (Kate, who is Harry's sister-in-law, had mentioned that she had played around with editing tools on a family picture, which had caused some controversy.)
In response to the speculation about whether he had altered the 2021 photo, Harriman decided to put an end to the online discussions. He shared the original photo from his iPad to prove that he had not added a willow tree to the background when questioned about it.
"No trees or meadows were altered in this image, it is untouched straight from the camera," he shared on Instagram. He also clarified that the tree in the photo is a Jacaranda Tree, not a willow tree.
Keep reading to discover more about Harriman's connection with Harry and Meghan:
How Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Know Photographer Misan Harriman
Courtesy of Misan Harriman/Facebook
February 2021
Harriman shared his thoughts on the pregnancy reveal snap with Good Morning America, expressing, "You don't even see the image, you feel it." He was moved by the couple being lost in each other, surrounded by life growing around them, including a tree in the background. Harriman found the image incredibly powerful and symbolic, stating that it really means a lot.
Harriman couldn't be with Harry and Meghan in person because of the pandemic.
He mentioned on GMA, "In the age of COVID, it’s impossible obviously for me to be there to shoot it, so technology came to the rescue." He added, "I was able to remotely take over the iPad and they could hear my voice. It was conversational and the rest really is history."
April 2022
Harriman joined Harry at the Invictus Games at the Hague.
Harriman excitedly shared on Instagram that he had a fantastic day yesterday and is eager to watch cycling and basketball today, followed by the closing ceremony in the evening.
A year later, Harriman posted another picture from the event and expressed his pride for Prince Harry and the impactful healing environment created by @weareinvictusgames. The #invictusgames community has transformed numerous lives through genuine connections.
June 2022
Harry and Meghan delighted fans by revealing the first photo of Lilibet's face on her first birthday. The picture was taken by Harriman at a cozy celebration at Frogmore Cottage in the U.K. (Harry, Meghan, and Archie used to reside in the royal residence before relocating to the U.S. in 2020 after stepping back from their royal roles.)
“It was such a privilege to celebrate the 1st birthday of Lilibet with my family and hers! Joy and face painting all around,” Harriman wrote via X at the time.
How Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Know Photographer Misan Harriman
Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for Netflix
Misan Harriman, and Meghan Markle.
December 2023
Meghan moderated a panel screening for Harriman’s short film The After, where she explained how the photographer bonded with Archie.
"The inspiration Misan gave runs deep. Last time he was with us, he was teaching Archie about photography," she shared. "I got Archie a camera, and he remarked, 'But it's not a Leica like Misan's.' I replied, 'You won't be getting a Leica, not even for Christmas.'"
In February 2024, this conversation took place.
Harriman later expressed his gratitude to Meghan for supporting his directorial debut. He described her as being like a sister to him and praised her impeccable taste. Harriman admired Meghan for seeking depth and intention in what she engages in, noting that she found those qualities in his film. He felt proud and thankful for her recognition of his work, especially as he is new to the world she knows so well.
Editor's P/S:
Misan Harriman's role as the trusted photographer for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex has been instrumental in capturing significant moments in their lives. His ability to connect with the couple on a personal level has resulted in heartfelt and intimate photographs that reflect their bond and journey. Harriman's photographs have played a crucial role in sharing their milestones with the public, from their pregnancy announcement to the first glimpse of their daughter, Lilibet.
Harriman's recent allegations of image manipulation have raised questions about the authenticity of his work. However, his subsequent clarification and release of the original unedited photograph have addressed these concerns. The controversy highlights the ongoing debate surrounding image manipulation in photography and the importance of transparency in the digital age. It also underscores the need for caution in making accusations and the potential consequences for individuals and their reputations. analysis and potential manipulation.