The Queen at 90: Elizabeth II by Annie Liebovitz

When you're 90, you need at least one official portrait and Elizabeth II, the first British monarch to reach this landmark, has decided on three. They are all by renowned photographer, Annie Liebovitz, and they give a 21st century feel to the biggest birthday this ancient institution has known in years.

The Queen in one of the portraits released for her 90th birthday

The first is very forward looking. The Queen is photographed with her five great grandchildren and two youngest grandchildren.
The eldest of the third generation, Savannah Phillips, stands at her shoulder while the youngest, Princess Charlotte of Cambridge, sits on her lap.  In another image, the Queen is shown with her only daughter, the Princess Royal, in a relaxed portrait.

The Queen and the Princess Royal in another portrait to mark the 90th birthday of Elizabeth II

The final photo released to mark the big birthday shows the Queen with her dogs. They have been a constant through her long reign and now as she marks this major milestone, she is shown smiling and happy with them at her side. 

Elizabeth II and her dogs in another birthday portrait by Annie Liebovitz

They are three images of Queen, a mother and a grandmother not to mention great grandmother. And they all show Elizabeth II smiling and relaxed. A very happy set of birthday portraits, ninety years in the making.

Picture credits: Annie Liebowitz/ PA Wire.