Kate is a very good photographer and an excellent subject – Terry O’Neill

A British photographer who has captured Hollywood stars and royalty on film has described the Duchess of Cambridge as “very good” behind the camera.

Terence O’Neill, known as Terry, was presented with his CBE for services to photography by the Duke of Cambridge at Buckingham Palace on Tuesday.

After receiving the honour, Mr O’Neill, using a wheelchair as he recovers from prostate cancer, said he hoped Kate would keep photography going in the royal family.

“She’s a very good photographer,” the 81-year-old told the PA news agency.

“She will keep it in the family.”

Mr O’Neill, who has photographed prominent people ranging from Winston Churchill and Nelson Mandela to Elvis Presley and Nicole Kidman, said the duchess herself is also an “excellent” subject.

“There have been some incredible people,” he said.

“I couldn’t really even compare – his (the Duke of Cambridge’s) wife is also an excellent subject.”

He said receiving his CBE from William added to the honour.

“It heightened the whole thing,” he said.

“It surpasses anything I’ve had happen to me in my life.”