Allerton told Express UK, “I would like to state very clearly and thus clarify matters that the photograph you are referring to, taken by me at Windsor Castle on July 6, 2019, has not been manipulated and was distributed to the best of my knowledge in adherence with the submission guidelines required by Getty Images, via the Palace press office.
“It would be utterly false and indeed defamatory to suggest that I had somehow changed or materially manipulated any of the subjects or content of the image.”
Allerton went on to explain that he had “meticulously prepared” for the family portrait, testing the lighting equipment and conducting test shots before the photoshoot.
“So, when the Royal Family arrived, I could work on composition and capturing a relaxed and pleasing moment, quickly and efficiently for them.”
He took the photo on his camera before “tethering it directly” to his laptop, so that “rapid review and approval could be made very soon after it was taken”, he said.
Afterwards, “the final image was delivered to the Palace press team for all relevant distribution, exclusively via that office”.
“I am sure you will understand that for such formal portraits time and speed is of the essence.
“It has always been a pleasure and privilege to be asked to photograph for the Royal Family.”
Allerton added that he had not known about the editor’s note added by Getty Images until contacted by a Daily Mail reporter.
