royal wedding pictures

The official photographs of William and Kate's wedding were released today and show a happy couple surrounded by their family on their big day

 

Prince William and Kate, now the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge with (front row (left to right): Miss Grace van Cutsem, Miss Eliza Lopes, HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, HM The Queen, The Hon. Margarita Armstrong-Jones, Lady Louise Windsor, Master William Lowther-Pinkerton. Back Row (left to right): Master Tom Pettifer, HRH The Duchess of Cornwall, HRH The Prince of Wales, HRH Prince Henry of Wales, Mr Michael Middleton, Mrs Michael Middleton, Mr James Middleton, Miss Philippa Middleton

The pictures, taken in Buckingham Palace's throne room immediately after Kate Middleton and Prince William arrived from Westminster Abbey after the royal wedding, capture the Royal Family and the Middletons in rapturous mood.

Three photos have been released, with one showing just the new Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and a second of the happy couple with their bridesmaids and pageboys.

The final image adds the bride and groom's parents - the Prince of Wales, the Duchess of Cornwall and Michael and Carole Middleton - along with the Queen, Duke of Edinburgh, best man Prince Harry, Kate's sister Pippa, her maid of honour, and brother James.

The pictures were taken by Hugo Burnand, who also took the wedding photographs when Charles and Camilla married in 2005.

The heir to the throne also asked the photographer to take the birthday image which marked his 60th year in 2008