Kate Middleton quits her job to pursue photography career

The 25-year-old, who has been working as an accessories buyer at Jigsaw, wants to become a professional photographer.

Kate, who has a degree in history of art, told friends she is unhappy working a three-day week at the High Street store and wants a new challenge.

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So serious is she about her new career plan that Kate, who likes to photograph abstract subjects rather than people, has already started looking at some of the best galleries in London to exhibit her work.

'Kate has become increasingly frustrated working at Jigsaw,' says a friend.

'She really wants to move and is seriously thinking about a career in photography. She loves cameras and has a great eye. She has already started putting an exhibition of her work together.'

When Kate failed to get a full-time job months after graduating from St Andrews – where she began her four-year relationship with William – she was accused of being work-shy and told by her boyfriend she needed to get a job.

She started up an online clothing company that hit financial trouble before it was up and running, prior to moving to Jigsaw, which is run by her parents' friends John and Belle Robinson.

'It was a job of convenience, a stop-gap,' adds the friend.

'When Kate graduated she was keen to do something in the art world but that didn't happen. Now it's time for her to move on.'

Initially, Kate worked a four-day week so she could see William at the weekends, but has now dropped to three days.

'Kate only works Monday to Wednesday and gets sent all over the country doing shoots and going to fairs to source new things.

It was fun but she wants a new challenge,' adds the friend. 'She is committed to becoming a photographer.'