Before She Was the People’s Princess

Before the world knew her as Princess Diana, she was a shy 19-year-old nursery teacher. In 1980, a photo of her taken in a park—sunlight revealing her silhouette through her skirt—unexpectedly thrust her into the spotlight. Though embarrassed at the time, it marked the beginning of her public life.

Photographer Arthur Edwards remembered Diana as gracious and kind, qualities she carried throughout her life. From breaking royal norms to being a devoted mother, Diana redefined what it meant to be royal.

She was fearless in her compassion—touching AIDS patients, comforting the sick, and walking through minefields. Her legacy of empathy lives on through her sons: Prince William focuses on mental health, while Prince Harry advocates for social justice.

That accidental photo became the first glimpse of a woman who would go on to inspire millions—not through title, but through heart.