Duchess of Cambridge made patron of Royal Photographic Society, taking over from Queen after 67 years

The Duchess of Cambridge has been named as the new patron of the Royal Photographic Society, as she joined youngsters taking part in a workshop run by the prestigious organisation.

The Duchess, who is a keen amateur photographer, has succeeded the Queen as the figurehead of the body, which was officially supported by the monarch for 67 years.

Mike Taylor, the society's chief operating officer, said: "It is a huge honour to have the duchess as our patron, especially given her personal interest in photography.

"We know that photography and creative pursuits have such a positive impact for people of all ages, and we are excited to be working with one of the duchess's charities in support of their work."

The duchess has been praised for her photographic portraits of her children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.

She has documented milestones in their life such as birthdays and first days at nursery which have been published to mark the occasions.

Some of the most recent images include three pictures of Louis released when he celebrated his first birthday on April 23.

The duchess is visiting a photography workshop run by the Royal Photographic Society and Action for Children, another of Kate's patronages, in a children's centre in Kingston upon Thames, south-west London.

She is joining children from Action for Children - which supports disadvantaged youngsters from across the UK - in several sessions, run with Royal Photographic Society honorary fellows Jillian Edelstein and Harry Borden.

The children will learn about various elements of photography such as portraits, light and colour.

Alongside developing new skills, the workshop will highlight how photography provides a universal language for young people to express themselves and release their thoughts and feelings.

The Royal Photographic Society was founded in 1853 with the aim of promoting the art and science of photography, and in the same year received royal patronage from Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.