Kate Middleton releases an extra behind-the-scenes photo of Prince Louis for his second birthday

Today, the birthday celebrations continue for Prince Louis!

In celebration of the young royal's second birthday yesterday, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge released three new portraits of their youngest son.

And now, they have shared the behind-the-scenes "reality" of the young royal's birthday photo shoot.

Alongside a post thanking well-wishers for their messages, the adorable snap shows the little prince after he has smeared a palette of paint on his face while creating a rainbow tribute for the NHS.

Next to the photo the couple wrote: "Instagram vs Reality. Thank you for all your lovely messages on Prince Louis’ second birthday!

"The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are very pleased to share new photographs of Prince Louis, taken by The Duchess this April."

According to the royal's official Instagram account, the photos - which were shot by Kate Middleton - were taken earlier this month in the grounds of the Cambridge's Anmer Hall home in Norfolk.

The original set of photos showed Louis dressed in a smart blue gingham-style having fun while creating a colourful piece of art.

The birthday boy's artwork is likely to be part of William and Kate's home-schooling lessons.

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"Sharing a sneak peek of Prince Louis’s handiwork ahead of his second birthday!" a statement from Kensington Palace said, which was released alongside the photos on social media.

"We are pleased to share images ahead of Prince Louis’s second birthday tomorrow, taken by The Duchess this April."

Too cute!