I will never forget the day that I had the privilege to meet the Queen to take her portrait.

Since her passing thousands of people are posting their own experiences of meeting this incredible lady, we all have such fond memories that are so prominent in our lives, that we felt we knew her.

I remember having 3 hours of preparation as I was only allowed to take 5 actuations so I needed to ensure my lighting & settings were perfect for her arrival. I was very calm until about 10 mins before she arrived, I had such a nervous belly that was gurgling so loudly. I was sure everyone could hear in the silent room, whilst everyone waiting for her.

The atmosphere in the room changed when she entered the room & put everyone at ease. She gave me the time I needed to take the perfect shot after greeting me and acknowledging I was the only other woman in the room in this Mayfair gentleman’s club.

For this unforgettable Royal commission, five regiments of the Queen’s Royal Lancers were being amalgamated into one single battalion and this was the last chance for the Queen to meet with five Colonels of the Royal Lancers at one time, so it is a historic image that will never be repeated.

I will be forever thankful to my Mayfair connections who led me to this once in a lifetime opportunity.

It really is the end of an era.

Ohhh and my stomach soon settled down after celebrating the occasion with some champagne!🥂

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II 1926-2022.