Prince George of Cambridge shows how much he has grown in this touching new official family photograph released on his first mothering Sunday.
The eight-month old, who is third in line to the throne, is pictured staring playfully at the family's pet cocker spaniel, Lupo, who is held by the Duke.
The young prince is wearing a blue jumper emblazoned with his name in the informal shot taken at Kensington Palace.
Prince George is the focal point of the picture, taken by award-winning photographer Jason Bell at a window of the Cambridges' home, Apartment 1A of Kensington Palace.
He was the photographer for Prince George's Christening last October.
Mr Bell has earned accolades including The Royal Photographic Society’s Terrence Donovan Award for outstanding contribution to photography and the Best British Black and White Photographer at the British Picture Editor’s Awards.
Bell is renowned for his images of Hollywood stars and rock and pop legends like Sir Paul McCartney, actress Scarlett Johansson and former England footballer David Beckham.
But he has captured a relaxed image of the Cambridges during the photo session held a few weeks ago.
The Duchess of Cambridge holds her young son in the relaxed image which reflects the couple's modern approach to royalty.
William and Kate have chosen to release the happy and laid-back image ahead of their forthcoming tour to New Zealand and Australia which begins next month.
The photograph shows the Cambridges casually dressed as they lean on the sill of an open window at their apartment in London.
The couple moved into the property, which had been the home of Princess Margaret, late last year after it had been refurbished.
