The Prince and Princess of Wales have paid an emotional tribute to teenage photographer Liz Hatton on what would have been her 18th birthday.
To mark her birthday, images taken by Liz – who died last November from a rare and aggressive cancer – were displayed in the exact locations where they were captured.
Upon learning of the family’s tribute plan, William and Catherine arranged for Liz’s photograph of a royal guardsman to be displayed at Windsor Castle, where it was originally taken.
The Daily Mail’s royal correspondent, Rebecca English, described the move as “a really thoughtful and unprecedented gesture”.
Remembering Liz Hatton today on what would have been her 18th birthday. The photo shown in this image was taken by Liz during an Investiture at Windsor Castle in October 2024, and is on display today in the spot where it was taken. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/3awN3e7au9
— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) August 31, 2025
The moving tribute was shared by the Royal Family on social media, with the message: “Remembering Liz Hatton today on what would have been her 18th birthday. The photo shown in this image was taken by Liz during an Investiture at Windsor Castle in October 2024, and is on display today in the spot where it was taken.”
Liz, from Harrogate in North Yorkshire, was diagnosed with desmoplastic small round cell tumour, a rare and aggressive form of cancer, at just 16. Given a prognosis of between six months and three years to live, she created a photography-themed bucket list, which soon captured national attention.
Her meeting with the Prince and Princess of Wales came after William learned of Liz’s story. She was invited to photograph a behind-the-scenes look at an investiture at Windsor Castle, where she also posed for personal pictures with the couple.
Following her death in November 2024, the Prince and Princess released a statement expressing their sadness:“We are so sorry to hear that Liz Hatton has sadly passed away. It was an honour to have met such a brave and humble young woman. Our thoughts and prayers are with Liz’s parents Vicky and Aaron and her brother Mateo at this unimaginably difficult time.”
Liz’s mother, Vicky Robayna, has spoken movingly about her daughter’s determination, calling her “not only a phenomenal photographer” but “the best human and the most wonderful daughter and big sister we could ever have asked for”.
“She remained determined to the last,” she said. “There is a gaping Liz-shaped hole in our lives that I am not sure how we will ever fill.”
Liz began photography in Year 6 after saving for her first camera and later achieved the highest possible GCSE grade in the subject. She had been studying photography at A-level at Harrogate Grammar School before her illness worsened.
As part of the tribute this week, Liz’s family encouraged people to share their favourite photograph taken by her, ensuring her creative legacy continues to inspire.
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