King Charles III can be summed up in just one word, according to veteran royal photographer Chris Jackson: “dedicated.”
Jackson, who is in Australia promoting his fourth book Modern Majesty, has spent a quarter of a century photographing the royal family at close range – capturing everything from historic milestones to fleeting, behind-the-scenes moments.
After decades of access, he said it is the 77-year-old King’s relentless work ethic and unwavering sense of duty that define him most clearly- even as he continues to battle an undisclosed form of cancer.
“If I had to describe the King in one word… Dedicated,” Jackson said.
“He is someone who works incredibly hard. Obviously, he’s had health challenges, but he’s bounced back and continues to show up every day. He’s very committed to the role and has an incredible sense of duty.”
For Jackson, that dedication is not just visible during official appearances, but in the demanding rhythm of the King’s daily life – much of which unfolds out of public view.
“I might photograph him for one engagement in the day, but then he’s got a dinner event in the evening, then an investiture the next morning,” he said.
“He works incredibly hard at an age where many people have retired and [are] playing golf somewhere. He’s still grinding away.”
It is a pace that has remained consistent across decades, as Charles has transitioned from heir apparent to monarch – and one that Jackson suggests reflects a deep understanding of the responsibility he carries.
That sense of purpose also extends to the King’s long-standing environmental advocacy, which Jackson says is reflected even in his personal choices.
“I’m not sure people know that King Charles has a car that runs on cheese and wine and has an ejector button in it,” he laughed.
“He has a beautiful Aston Martin… and… it runs on the byproduct of cheesemaking and wine… so it’s very environmentally friendly and looks absolutely beautiful.”
Of all the photos he has taken of the royal family, Jackson points to a set of portraits of Charles on his 70th birthday as his favourite.
The images, taken in the garden at Highgrove and aboard the royal train, capture what he describes as “fleeting moments” that reveal the King’s genuine nature.
Meanwhile, Jackson said his wife, Queen Camilla, 78, brings a contrasting – but equally important – presence to royal life.
“Camilla’s got a great sense of humour… She’s always got a smile,” he said.
“I think that’s really important when you find yourself in all these weird and wonderful situations around the world… She’s great to photograph.”
Having travelled extensively with the couple, and even being handpicked to take their 25th wedding anniversary portrait in Italy last year, Jackson said Camilla’s warmth and ability to connect with people have become increasingly evident.
“I see a great response to her wherever we go,” he said.
“We were in Bath the other day… a lot of crowds turning out just to see Camilla on her own – she’s very popular.”
It marks a significant shift for the Queen, who has faced intense scrutiny over the years but is now, according to Jackson, embraced by the public in her own right.
Looking ahead, Jackson also reflected on the future of the monarchy, pointing to Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, as the next generation of leadership.
“Catherine will be a great Queen. She’s very passionate about the things she cares about… for example, advocacy for young people… and that’s really important to her,” he said.
Jackson also praised William’s evolution into a global statesman, particularly through his environmental work.
“Prince William’s Earthshot [Prize] has been a huge focus for him… and it’s doing a huge amount of good in the world.
“I’ve seen him grow into this incredible statesperson… taking on duties on behalf of his father.”
Having documented both generations over many years, Jackson said it is that continuity – combined with an ability to adapt – that underpins the monarchy’s longevity.
“The unique thing about the royal family… they have an incredible… soft power,” he said.
“And they’re great ambassadors for the UK.”
Jackson is set to join the royal rota on an official tour to the US in late April.
“That will be interesting for sure,” he said.
Modern Majesty is available online from April 16 and in Australian bookstores from June 16.