A modified version was posted after the original version was shared

The Prince and Princess of Wales shared their annual Christmas card on social media on Thursday, featuring a heartwarming family photograph with their three children.

The royal couple’s initial post, however, was swiftly removed from their social media pages, only to reappear minutes later with a modification.

The updated version featured a more zoomed-in perspective of the same family photo, marking a subtle but distinct change from the initial post.

The modification came within minutes of the original share with the royal couple’s social media team acting swiftly.

In a royal first, the Christmas card featured an innovative animated element, with snow falling around the image as it was displayed in front of a Christmas tree.

The festive greeting from William and Kate was simple yet warm, stating “Wishing everyone a very happy Christmas,” accompanied by a Christmas tree emoji.

Royal fans responded enthusiastically to the festive image, with one commenting: “Perfect Christmas card for everyone who watched the video, have a blessed and healthy celebration.”

Another fan wrote: “Happy Christmas your royal highnesses! I hope the joy of Princess Catherine’s recovery makes this the most special one yet.”

The style marked a departure from their 2023 Christmas card, which featured an artistic black-and-white portrait captured by fashion photographer Josh Shinner.

The family photograph was captured from a video by Will Warr in Norfolk, showing the Royal Family at their country estate, Anmer Hall.

The footage included intimate moments of the family enjoying outdoor activities, featuring the royal couple and their children on dog walks through nearby woodland and visits to the beach.

The 2024 Christmas card was released on the same day the Waleses skipped the pre-Christmas lunch at Buckingham Palace.

The royal couple, along with their children Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, had been expected to attend the traditional family gathering.

The Prince and Princess of Wales were notably absent from today’s event, having already begun their festive holiday in Norfolk.

The royal couple, along with their children Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, had been expected to attend the traditional family gathering.

A royal source confirmed the Wales family are already settled in Norfolk as planned and are looking forward to spending time with the rest of the Royal Family at Sandringham over the Christmas period.

The decision to skip the event is part of Kate and William prioritising spending time with their children while they have time off from school.