Prince William and Princess Kate have honoured the memory of amateur photographer Liz Hatton, who passed away in 2024 following a courageous battle with cancer, with a poignant tribute at Windsor Castle on what would have been her 18th birthday.

On 31 August, a photograph taken by Liz during an investiture ceremony at Windsor in October 2023 was placed on display in the Grand Reception Room — the very spot where she captured the image. The photograph, which features one of the Yeomen of the Guard, was chosen by Prince William and Princess Kate to celebrate Liz’s life and passion for photography.

The tribute is part of a one-day-only exhibition arranged to “remember and honour” Liz on her milestone birthday.

A Bond Through the Lens

Liz formed a touching bond with the Princess of Wales, herself an avid amateur photographer, during her final months. While undergoing treatment for a rare and aggressive desmoplastic small round cell tumour, Liz began ticking off items on a photography “bucket list,” capturing portraits and scenes that reflected her vibrant spirit and creative vision.

During this time, she collaborated with famed photographer Rankin, shot performers from The Royal Ballet, comedian Michael McIntyre, and even photographed celebrities on the red carpet at the MTV Europe Music Awards.

Her passion for photography brought her face-to-face with Princess Kate, who invited Liz to photograph Prince William at the Windsor investiture.

“Liz was a talented young photographer whose creativity and strength inspired us both,” Kate said at the time.

A Mother’s Heartfelt Tribute

Liz’s mother, Vicky Robayna, confirmed her daughter’s passing on 27 November 2024, sharing an emotional message on social media:

“No one could have fought harder for life than she did. There is a gaping Liz-shaped hole in our lives that I am not sure how we will ever fill.”

She also thanked the many people who supported Liz’s dreams in her final weeks:

“You ensured Liz’s last two months were her very best. She flew high until the end.”

Honouring Liz Online: A Call to Celebrate Her Work

On the eve of what would have been her 18th birthday, Liz’s family shared a powerful message through her Instagram account, calling on the public to help celebrate her legacy through her photographs:

“Liz didn’t get a lifetime of taking photos. She got 12 weeks to cram in a lifetime. I could sit here and rail against the fates, but Liz would definitely not approve.”

The message continued: “So tomorrow we would love to flood the internet with her photographs. She can’t be here to celebrate, but that doesn’t mean she doesn’t deserve a celebration.”

The family encouraged supporters to post Liz’s photos across social media throughout the day — a virtual gallery in honour of a life cut short, but beautifully lived.