A recent controversy has erupted surrounding photographer Misan Hariman and his portrayal of Megan Markle and Prince Harry in their 2021 Pregnancy Announcement photo.
Hariman has vehemently denied accusations of heavily editing the image, despite claims made by various sources.
In a video posted on Instagram on Wednesday, March 13th, Hariman addressed the allegations, particularly those raised by an article in the Daily Mail.
According to the publication, Hariman supposedly confessed to manipulating the pregnancy announcement portrait during an appearance on a podcast called Private Passions.
The Daily Mail reported that Hariman discussed the portrait session on a BBC Radio 3 podcast in 2022, where it was suggested that the setting of the photo had been altered.
Hariman refuted these claims, stating that the couple was indeed captured at home in their garden, immersed in their joy.
Hariman expressed bewilderment at how his podcast comments were misconstrued as an admission of guilt regarding the image editing.
He emphasized that any references to meadows and willow trees were not made by him but rather by the interviewer, diverting attention from the essence of the discussion.
Despite Hariman’s assertions, journalist Tom Bauer has brought forth evidence challenging Hariman’s narrative, with support from Getty Images editors’ notes.
The editors’ notes from Getty Images confirm that the image was digitally enhanced by the source, casting doubt on the authenticity of the original photo.
Following Bauer’s revelations, Getty Images, at Megan Markle’s behest, removed the digitally enhanced disclaimer from Hariman’s photos.
This move has sparked debates over potential double standards in image enhancement practices, especially in comparison to previous photos of the Sussexes.
Interestingly, neither Misan Hariman nor the Sussexes have directly refuted the specific details presented by Tom Bauer regarding the controversial photos.
Hariman’s attempt to demand an apology and retraction from the Daily Mail has been met with skepticism, as questions linger about the authenticity of the original image.
Moreover, the emergence of rumors suggesting that Hariman may have digitally altered the photo by adding a tree has added another layer of complexity to the ongoing saga.
Despite these speculations, Hariman continues to defend his work, portraying himself as a victim of unwarranted scrutiny.
As the controversy unfolds, supporters of the Sussexes have rallied behind Hariman, with some even offering to contribute to his legal fund.
However, critics have questioned the priorities of donating to a wealthy individual’s cause instead of aiding those in need.
In light of these developments, the focus remains on unraveling the truth behind the disputed photo and determining the extent of manipulation involved.
The conflicting accounts and shifting narratives only serve to deepen the intrigue surrounding this unfolding saga, leaving many wondering where the ultimate truth lies.