Princess Diana posed for countless photos during her life, whether for royal engagements or official photoshoots. However, one particular picture that she considered nearly “R-rated” still managed to land on the front pages of many newspapers.

Recently, the photographer who captured that controversial image opened up about the true story behind it. Diana was less than thrilled with the outcome.

As the rift between her two sons, William and Harry, has deepened, they’ve often relied on other family members for support. Both have spoken about this in interviews, though nothing could replace their mother, who always sought to protect them.

While Diana is no longer with us, the archives are filled with photos of her with her boys, including many never-before-seen pictures that didn’t make it to the press. Yet, one particular image of her with two other children caused concern for the princess—due to what she was (or wasn’t) wearing.

Throughout her time in the public eye, Diana was constantly pursued by paparazzi, eager to capture the most sensational photo. Sadly, this invasive media attention often crossed the line—something many other celebrities can relate to.

Princess Diana remains one of the most photographed and beloved figures in history. Iconic images, such as the one of her sitting in front of the Taj Mahal in 1982, have been recreated countless times by others, including William and Kate, with the bench still referred to as “Lady Di’s chair.”

The story behind the famous “no petticoat” picture highlights how Diana became a style icon. In 1980, a year before her wedding to Charles, Diana worked as a nursery school teacher in London. Known for her warm heart, she quickly became a favorite subject for photographers looking to capture her charm.

Royal photographer Arthur Edwards, who had just started working for The Sun at the time, managed to track down Diana at her nursery job. He arranged a photoshoot in a nearby park, taking several photos with her and two children.

Initially, the shoot seemed to be going well. But when the sun suddenly shone through her skirt, revealing her legs, it became one of the most talked-about pictures. The image, described by Edwards as an “amazing silhouette,” became iconic but left Diana uncomfortable. She reportedly told Charles, “I don’t want to be known as the girlfriend who had no petticoat.”

Despite the challenges of public life, Diana understood the scrutiny that came with being a royal. Photographer Kent Gavin, who worked with her for over 20 years, said Diana knew the difference between paparazzi and those simply doing their jobs.

Diana and Charles’ marriage, marked by numerous difficulties including Charles’ affair with Camilla, eventually ended in divorce. Yet the public’s admiration for Diana never waned, even after images like the “R-rated” photo at her school job.

After her passing, many private letters written by Diana revealed more about her concerns, including her fears for her safety. In 2023, two humorous greeting cards she had sent to Constantine II, the former King of Greece, were auctioned, showing a playful, lighthearted side of the late princess.

William and Harry have continued to honor their mother’s legacy, focusing on causes close to her heart. William created the Earthshot Prize to reward environmental innovators, while Harry founded the Invictus Games for veterans.

Recently, William’s visit to the U.S. highlighted just how much his mother’s charm lives on through him. Royal expert Jennie Bond noted that William shares Diana’s “easy charm” and is becoming a rising star of the monarchy alongside his wife, Catherine.

It’s clear that Diana’s impact remains strong, and many believe she would be proud of the man her eldest son has become.