Princess Diana's favourite photographer Patrick Demarchelier has sadly died at the age of 78.
The snapper became friends with the people's princess after shooting a now-famous black and white portrait of her.
The French photographer was first contacted by the Princess of Wales in 1989 after she'd seen a picture he had taken on the cover of Vogue magazine.
It was the following year that they first worked together and he produced the stunning portrait of Diana wearing a strapless gown and tiara.
After that, Diana asked Patrick to become her personal portraitist - an unusual step, with him becoming the first non-British official photographer of the Royal Family.
Patrick once said of Diana: "We became friends. She was funny and kind – but fundamentally she was a very simple woman who liked very simple things."
Patrick's death was confirmed on his Instagram account last night.
A statement read: " It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Patrick Demarchelier on March 31st 2022, at the age of 78."
Patrick had lived in New York with his wife Mia, a former model, and is survived by three sons - Gustaf, Arthur and Victor - and three grandchildren.
A number of celebrities paid tribute to Patrick.
Actress Kate Hudson commented on the post: "Always loved working with Patrick so much. Very sad to hear of his passing. I am sending so much love to his family".
Fellow photographer Mert Alas dubbed him a "legend".
And Billy Baldwin wrote: "Oh no!! Truly my favorite to work with. Kind, generous, fun. He created the most marvelous and, at times, sensual atmosphere for all those who worked with him.
"One of the best there ever was. I will miss his creativity and that thick French accent of his."
Model Christie Brinkley posted: " I loved working with Patrick. I loved just hanging with Patrick on the many trips we did. I just loved him. He was a creative genius but in a casual seemingly effortless way, and he was fun and funny in his broken Franglais. My heart goes out to his beloved Mia, and his cherished Gustave Arthur and Victor and to his brother Eric."
