Queen 'shows some teeth' for snap

It is the Queen's 22nd visit to Canada, where she is head of state

Queen Elizabeth II has been asked to "show some teeth" for an official portrait on her state trip to Canada.

Award-winning photographer Robert Bray told her: "Big smile - show some teeth... over here - into the camera."

The Queen smiled but her husband, the Duke of Edinburgh, seemed perplexed by Mr Bray's approach, PA News reported.

The couple were at a state banquet in Edmonton, Alberta, on the eve of their departure after a nine-day visit to the Commonwealth country.

The trip aimed to mark the centenary of Saskatchewan and Alberta's entry into the Confederation.

The Queen is the head of state in Canada.

For more than half a century, you have given us your love and dedication as our Queen Paul Martin Canadian prime minister

Robert Bray has been named Canada's Portrait Photographer of the Year three times and Alberta's Photographer of the Year five times.

The portrait resulting from his photoshoot will be hung on government buildings throughout Canada.

The Queen was wearing a white evening gown and fur stole, along with a diamond tiara and sapphire necklace when she was photographed.

Addressing guests at the banquet, she said: "Your enduring ties to the Crown stand not only for a respect of heritage but also for the principles of peace, order and good government..."

Canadian Prime Minister Paul Martin said the Royal visits were "very special" to his country.

"For more than half a century, you have given us your love and dedication as our Queen," he said.