To coincide with the 80th anniversary of VE Day an archive of rare wartime photographs has been released documenting the pivotal but often overlooked role of women in military filmmaking during the Second World War. Published by Historic England to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day, the collection – curated by Dorothy ‘Knicky’ Chapman – captures the life and work of the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF) photographers, offering a rare glimpse into the secretive world of wartime film production at Pinewood Studios. Chapman was among the first cohort of women trained at the No. 2 School of Photography in Blackpool, later serving at RAF Iver Heath – the wartime name for Pinewood Studios. There, she played a key role in the RAF Film Production Unit (RAFFPU), working on military films and documenting both training and operations. Duncan Wilson, Chief Executive of Historic England, said: “As we mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day, this remarkable collection commemorates the unsung heroes of the Second World War and sheds light on the history of wartime filmmaking. The photographs provide rare insight into a lesser-known aspect of our wartime heritage, from the crucial role of Pinewood Studios to the pioneering women of the WAAF.” The archive contains over 150 photographs, many never seen before, showing behind-the-scenes moments from Chapman’s time at Pinewood as well as candid scenes from her WAAF training. Among them are images of model aircraft being built for film sets, RAF and WAAF personnel at work, and members of the photographic and film units capturing vital footage used to inform the public and bolster international support for the Allied war effort. Pinewood Studios served as a base for several key wartime film units, including the RAFFPU and the Army Film and Photographic Unit (AFPU). These units produced powerful propaganda films, newsreels and training materials – including coverage of major events such as the D-Day landings – helping to shape public understanding of the war. David Conway, CEO of Pinewood Group, added: “Knicky Chapman’s collection offers a fascinating glimpse into Pinewood Studios’ legacy and brings the pioneering role of women to the forefront. We continue to host an annual Service of Remembrance at Pinewood in honour of those who served in the wartime film and photographic units.” Chapman worked on productions such as The Big Pack and Operational Height, films that offered rare insights into the work of the RAF. She was also part of the Stills department, capturing still photography for many of these films, and worked alongside emerging talent including a young Richard Attenborough. The archive highlights the pioneering role of women in military photography, a field largely dominated by men at the time. The WAAF, founded in 1939, enabled women to fill critical non-combat roles in the RAF. Chapman was one of just 26 women in the first intake of trainees at the photography school, now the Defence School of Photography at RAF Cosford. Their training, which included aerial reconnaissance and darkroom work, was crucial to intelligence gathering and wartime planning. Images in the archive show WAAF recruits learning to process aerial films in mobile labs, plot photographic data, and simulate field conditions – showcasing both technical skill and adaptability under pressure. But the collection is not solely about military precision. It also provides a more personal look at wartime life, depicting the camaraderie and community forged among the women. Photographs show Chapman and her fellow WAAF members engaging in sports, drama, and social events with RAF personnel at Pinewood Studios. While Chapman went on to pursue her passion for photography after the war, the disbandment of the WAAF brought an end to many of these women’s film careers. Their contributions, however, have not been forgotten. Historic England is now calling for the public to help fill in the gaps. The organisation is encouraging people to share stories of women who served in the RAFFPU or other wartime film units. Submissions will be collected until Sunday 25 May and featured on Historic England’s website. Duncan Wilson, Chief Executive of Historic England, said: “As we mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day, this remarkable collection commemorates the unsung heroes of the Second World War and sheds light on the history of wartime filmmaking. The photographs provide rare insight into a lesser-known aspect of our wartime heritage, from the crucial role of Pinewood Studios to the pioneering women of the WAAF.” Heritage Minister Baroness Twycross also praised the release: “This remarkable collection reveals the vital role Pinewood Studios played during the war and shines a light on the hidden contribution of women like Knicky Chapman who broke barriers in military photography. Their legacy will continue to inspire future generations.” Where: Pinewood Studios, Buckinghamshire, United Kingdom When: 06 May 2025 Credit: Historic England/Knicky Chapman Collection/Cover Images **EDITORIAL USE ONLY. MATERIALS ONLY TO BE USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH EDITORIAL STORY. THE USE OF THESE MATERIALS FOR ADVERTISING, MARKETING OR ANY OTHER COMMERCIAL PURPOSE IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED. MATERIAL COPYRIGHT REMAINS WITH STATED SUPPLIER.**