Prince Harry and Meghan Markle release official royal wedding photos taken by Mario Testino’s protege who is also a royal

The official wedding photos of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have been released today and they are extraordinary, to say the least.

The three photographs shared by Kensington Palace are being referred to as the boldest and most intimate royal portraits ever released.

Accompanying the photos was a message from Harry and Meghan saying they “feel so lucky” to have shared their big day with the world. They also thanked their millions of adoring fans for their messages.

A Kensington Palace spokesperson said: “The Duke and Duchess of Sussex would like to thank everyone who took part in the celebrations of their wedding on Saturday. They feel so lucky to have been able to share their day with all those gathered in Windsor and also all those who watched the wedding on television across the UK, Commonwealth, and around the world.

“Their Royal Highnesses are delighted with these official portraits taken by Alexi Lubomirski and are happy to be able to share them today. They would also like to say thank you for all of the generous messages of support they have received.”

Of the three photos shared, the most striking image is of Meghan sitting between Harry’s legs as the prince looks smiling at the camera while his new bride laughs at someone off camera.

Another wedding photo features The Queen, Prince Phillip, Prince Charles, Camilla Parker Bowles, Prince William, Kate Middleton, Prince Harry, Meghan Markle and all the bridesmaid and page boys. The photo has an informal feel and shows Prince George and Princess Charlotte grinning widely.

The couple were captured by Alexi Lubomirski, 42, the protege of photographer Mario Testino who was famously beloved by Harry’s mother Princess Diana. He was also the one who took Harry and Meghan’s official engagement photos.

Mr Lubomirski, 42, whose own wife looks very much like Meghan, called Meghan’s relationship with Prince Harry a “wonderful love story”.

Meghan and Harry’s choice of official images can be seen as the next stage of their royal revolution.