Kate Middleton’s First Official Portrait After Cancer Announcement Explained: Royal Experts Reveal Meaning Of Photo In Nature

Kate Middleton's first portrait after she announced her cancer diagnosis and before she made her first public appearance "was reflective," according to a royal expert.

The Princess of Wales had been missing from the public spotlight for months after she shared her cancer diagnosis in March. However, she joined King Charles, Queen Camilla, her husband, Prince William, and their three children -- Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, 9, and Prince Louis, 6 -- at Trooping the Colour. Prior to the event, Kensington Palace released a photo of Middleton posing outdoors to confirm her attendance at the King's annual birthday celebration. In her message, the Duchess of Cambridge said she was" "not out of the woods yet.

Sally Bedell Smith, a journalist and royal biographer, weighed in on Middleton's photo taken outdoors. In the snap, she can be seen looking up while leaning on a tree with her hands crossed over her chest.

"There she is in nature, which has fortified her, and looking upward in a sign of real hope and encouragement for everybody," Smith told People.

Ailsa Anderson, a former secretary to Queen Elizabeth, noted that the Princess of Wales could have chosen a family photo. However, for her return, she opted for a solo picture, which could mean she was on a journey of her own.

"She could have posted an image of her with William or the kids. Even though she has a huge amount of support from others, it is a journey you have to do on your own," Anderson told the outlet. "[The photo] was her on her own; it was reflective."

Being one with nature is significant for the Duchess of Cambridge. The royal mom of three has been an advocate of spending time outdoors as it offers numerous health benefits.

"I believe that spending time outdoors when we are young can play a role in laying the foundations for children to become happy, healthy adults," Middleton once said, per the Mirror. "I really feel that nature and being interactive outdoors has huge benefits for our physical and mental wellbeing, particularly for young kiddies."

Jennie Bond, a journalist, TV presenter and former BBC royal correspondent, also told The Sunday Mirror's Notebook magazine that the future queen would likely spend time in her garden and seek comfort there amid her health battle.

"I'm sure Catherine will take huge solace in her gardens and the joy of being outside during these months of recuperation," Jennie said.

"Catherine has always taken great strength and inspiration from nature and outdoor life. And there is something so reassuring and optimistic about the green shoots of spring -- especially if you've planted the seeds yourself."

Although Middleton appeared in Trooping the Colour, she skipped the other events following it, including the Royal Ascot. She also didn't join Prince William, Prince George and Princess Charlotte at Taylor Swift's concert at Wembley Stadium on Friday.

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Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales