As a source told VF, the Duchess of Edinburgh, a new family favorite, "prefers to keep the attention on her causes and charities rather than on herself."

Along with The King and Queen Camilla, Prince William and Princess Kate, who share a close bond with the Edinburghs, are said to be joining the festivities. The Princess of Wales and Duchess of Edinburgh are said to have a particularly strong relationship, with Kate viewing Sophie as a sort of "royal sister."

Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh is marking a milestone birthday! She turned 60 on Monday, Jan. 20, and friends and former colleagues have been honoring her contribution to the royal family – amid the release of the duchess' stunning new portrait.

London-based fashion photographer Christina Ebenezer created Duchess Sophie's beautiful new portrait. Sharing the photographs on Instagram, the Royal Family's official account revealed, " The Duchess of Edinburgh was interested in Ebenezer's creative style of photography and wanted to support a rising female photographer."

Kate Middleton found a mentor in Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh when she was first welcomed into the royal fold, but their warm working relationship has developed into an even closer sisterly bond amid Kate’s cancer battle.

Photographer Christina Ebenezer also shared her favorite part of the photo shoot Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh is starring in a new portrait for her 60th birthday, and the photographer behind the camera is sharing an unseen snap from the photo session.