A teenager whose passion for photography during her terminal cancer treatment led to her meeting the Princess of Wales and working with photographer Rankin has died.

Liz Hatton, 17, from Harrogate, North Yorkshire, died early on Wednesday morning, her mother Vicky Robayna announced on social media.

In January, Hatton was diagnosed with a rare, aggressive cancer and started a photography wish list. She was invited to photograph an investiture at Windsor Castle in October, where the Princess of Wales was seen embracing her.

In a post on X on Wednesday evening, Robayna said: “Our incredible daughter Liz passed away in the early hours of this morning. She remained determined until the end. Even yesterday she was still making plans. We are very proud of the kindness, compassion and courage she has shown over the last year.”

Hatton was told in January she had between six months and three years to live after being diagnosed with a desmoplastic small round cell tumor. She finished chemotherapy in October.

Her mother added: “Not only was she a phenomenal photographer, she was the best person and the most wonderful daughter and big sister we could ever ask for.” No one could have fought harder for life than her.

“There’s a gaping, lizard-shaped hole in our lives, and I don’t know how we’ll ever fill it. We are so grateful to each and every one of you, whether you offered your help, liked posts, or shared, you made the last two months the best for Liz. She flew up until the end.”

Among the experiences on her bucket list was working on a fashion shoot that Rankin helped her with.

The Observer commissioned Hatton to photograph an exhibition opening at Somerset House in June and published her images of Tilda Swinton and Erin O’Connor.

She also worked with press photographers at the premiere of Venom: The Last Dance and photographed a portrait of comedian Michael McIntyre.

Hatton photographed on the red carpet at the Royal Variety Performance on Friday.

Robayna asked people to share her daughter’s photos on social media and help raise funds for desmoplastic small round cell tumor research. She said: “In 2024, a 5-year survival rate of 15% is simply not enough. “Together we can change that.”

A spokesman for the charity Sarcoma UK said Hatton’s death is “a stark reminder of the urgent need for further research and better treatments for sarcoma – a rare and aggressive form of cancer that affects too many young lives.” Our thoughts are with Liz’ Family, friends and everyone who knew and loved her during this extremely difficult time.

“We honor Liz’s memory and contribution to raising awareness of sarcoma and hope her legacy will inspire continued support for research and understanding of this devastating disease.”