King Charles and Queen Camilla are extending their warm wishes to everyone this Christmas. On December 7th, Buckingham Palace released the official Christmas card that the 76-year-old King and 77-year-old Queen will be sending to mark the holiday. This year's card features a captivating portrait of the couple taken by photographer Millie Pilkington in the Garden at Buckingham Palace in April 2024.

The Royal Couple's Christmas Portrait and Traditions

Christmas Card Portrait

In the photo, Queen Camilla dons a blue wool crepe dress by her trusted designer Fiona Clare, complemented by her private jewelry. This portrait holds significance as it showcases the couple's elegance and style. It was taken on a special occasion and serves as a reminder of their presence during the holiday season.The King and Queen have previously chosen Pilkington's photos to commemorate important events. In April, Buckingham Palace issued a new picture of the royal couple, which marked the first anniversary of their coronation in May 2023. The image showed Queen Camilla holding her husband's arm as he looked at her with love. It was captured in the Buckingham Palace garden on April 10th, the day after their 19th wedding anniversary. This portrait not only commemorated their special day but also highlighted their bond.

Royal Photographer's Work

Pilkington has a long history with the royal family. Kate Middleton and Prince William chose her as their private photographer for their wedding in 2011. Since then, she has been entrusted with taking the birthday portraits of their children, Prince George, 11 years old, Princess Charlotte, 9 years old, and Prince Louis, 6 years old. She also captured the sweet pictures of William and his kids for Father's Day in 2023. Her work has become an integral part of the royal family's memories.

Holiday Season Changes

This year was unlike any other for the royal family. King Charles and Princess Kate, 42, were each receiving treatment for cancer, which led them to reduce some of their royal duties. The King between February and late April, and Princess Kate for most of the year, focused on their health. In November, Prince William called the year "brutal" and "probably been the hardest in my life." His wife seemingly echoed the sentiment at her Together at Christmas carol service on December 6th.

Family Gatherings at Sandringham

King Charles and Queen Camilla didn't attend Princess Kate's Together at Christmas carol service as they would have overshadowed her as the most senior royals. However, the Prince and Princess of Wales are expected to celebrate Christmas with the King at Sandringham in a few weeks. They will convene the family and continue the traditions at their private home in the Norfolk countryside. This gathering will bring the royal family together during the holiday season.Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more!