In a heartfelt tribute, the Princess of Wales remembered a remarkable young photographer who left a lasting impact on many lives.
According to Daily Mail, the tribute, shared on social media, commemorated Liz Hatton, the inspiring teenage photographer from Harrogate, North Yorkshire, on what would have been her 18th birthday.
Liz Hatton was diagnosed with a desmoplastic small round cell tumour, a rare and aggressive cancer, that limited her time to six months to three years. Despite her diagnosis, Liz pursued her passion for photography with fervor. Her journey included a poignant meeting with the Princess of Wales, held at Windsor Castle in October 2024, where she photographed the Prince of Wales during an investiture ceremony.
On Liz's birthday, the Prince and Princess of Wales shared a tribute on social media, highlighting Liz's talented creativity and enduring spirit. Included in the tribute was a photograph captured by Liz herself, depicting a royal guardsman in the regal setting of Windsor Castle, which was fittingly displayed in the place it was originally taken.
The artistic endeavors of Liz began in her early years, as she discovered her love for photography while in Year 6. Her natural talent earned her the highest possible grade in photography during her GCSEs, and she was partway through her A-level coursework at Harrogate Grammar School when she sadly passed away.
Liz's mother, Vicky Robayna, spoke candidly about her daughter's exceptional nature and tenacity. She described Liz not only as an incredible photographer but also as a person who enriched her family with her extraordinary presence.
Vicky Robayna said, “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 added, “[Liz] remained determined to the last” and cherished her as “the best human and the most wonderful daughter and big sister we could ever have asked for.”
In January, motivated by her inexorable drive, Liz embarked upon crafting a photography bucket list appeal. This project aimed to compile a collection of unique photographs that reflected her interest in capturing the essence of emotion and life’s fleeting moments.
During an interview with BBC Radio York, Liz expressed what drove her passion for photography. She had always been drawn to the art of capturing human emotion, believing that freezing such moments in time was nothing short of magical. Liz's work focused on portraiture, where she could showcase the unguarded expressions of people.
The depth of Liz's work and her fearless outlook on life resonated deeply with the Princess of Wales. The memory of their meeting at Windsor left a significant imprint, prompting the deep admiration expressed by the Princess on Liz's birthday.
As the Palace shared the touching tribute, the impact of Liz's work and perseverance became more widely recognized and celebrated. Her talent and the memories she created will continue to inspire not only the royal family but all those who cherish the art of photography.
The acknowledgment from the Prince and Princess of Wales serves as a testament to Liz's influence and the strength of her artistic voice. Their message, affirming how Liz inspired them, underscores the breadth of her impact beyond her immediate community.
In sum, Liz Hatton's life, though tragically cut short by illness, was marked by her indomitable spirit and exceptional skill as a young photographer. The remembrance shared by the Royals on her birthday celebrated her enduring legacy and the indelible mark she left behind, ensuring that her art and courage continue to inspire countless others.
