Historic England Reveals Rare Photographs of Wartime Filmmaking, Marking 80th Anniversary of VE Day
In celebration of the 80th anniversary of VE Day, the Historic England Archive has published a fascinating collection of photographs capturing the hidden story of wartime filmmaking and the pioneering role of women in military photography during the Second World War.
The collection documents the role of Dorothy "Knicky" Chapman, who was part of the first intake of the Women's Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF) at the No. 2 School of Photography in Blackpool before being posted to the famous Pinewood Studios, the central hub of military filmmaking.
This remarkable collection has over 150 photographs capturing the perspective of a woman wartime photographer, featuring behind-the-scenes shots from Chapman's posting at Pinewood Studios and previously unseen images of her WAAF training.
Behind-the-scenes at Pinewood Studios: the hidden story of wartime filmmaking
During the Second World War, Pinewood Studios acted as the base for Government film units, including the RAF Film Production Unit (RAFFPU) and the Army Film and Photographic Unit (AFPU), and was known as RAF Iver Heath. The collection contains striking behind-the-scenes shots of the world-famous film studio during the war years, featuring stills from film productions, as well as RAF and WAAF officers at work.
The photographs offer a rare glimpse of Pinewood Studios during the war. Film and Photography units for the RAF and the army were based at Pinewood Studios and formed an integral part of the war effort, producing films that shaped public perception and increased international support for the Allied Forces.
Knicky (pronounced Nicky) Chapman was posted to the RAFFPU at Pinewood Studios, where she assisted in the production of military films, such as 'The Big Pack' and 'Operational Height'. These provided rare insight into the RAF's operations and were crucial for maintaining public morale during wartime.
On the 80th anniversary of VE Day we remember the pivotal role both Pinewood and our other UK studio, Shepperton Studios, played in the Second World War. We are honoured to be included in these rare photographs from Historic England’s Archive. Knicky Chapman's collection provides a fascinating glimpse into the legacy of Pinewood Studios and brings the pioneering role of women to the forefront. We continue to host an annual Service of Remembrance at Pinewood, giving special recognition to the wartime film and photographic units who trained and worked here, and will never forget this important part of British film history.
A pioneering women’s unit in military photography
The collection also reveals the little-known story of the contributions of the Women's Auxiliary Air Force to photography and reconnaissance during the Second World War.
Chapman volunteered to join the WAAF before conscription was introduced. She was part of the first intake of women, 26 in total, to be trained at the No. 2 School of Photography (now the Defence School of Photography at RAF Cosford) in 1941.
The training of WAAF photographers like Chapman proved vital to the war effort. The training course kept up with the rapid advancements in military air photography and reconnaissance, which provided intelligence crucial to the war's progress.
The collection sheds light on the comprehensive training programme at the School, showcasing women learning how to process films in mobile darkrooms, plotting aerial photographs and simulating work under active service conditions.
A social perspective of wartime life
Beyond capturing the training and work of the WAAF, the collection also showcases the social side of wartime life, revealing the lasting friendships and camaraderie formed by the women.
The photographs show Chapman and her WAAF colleagues playing sports, participating in dramatic productions and attending social gatherings at Pinewood Studios with RAF officers.
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 as the centre of military filmmaking to the pioneering women of the WAAF. By sharing this collection, we hope to honour the contributions of these women photographers and filmmakers to the war effort, preserving their stories as an important part of our national heritage.
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.
As we commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day, this collection honours their contribution to our national story. Their legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
Share your stories of the women of the Second World War
Little is known about the lives of the women of the RAF Film Production Unit (RAFFPU) following the end of the war. Historic England invites people to share the stories of women who served in the RAFFPU and how their time in the Women's Auxillary Air Force (WAAF) has shaped their lives. Send your stories to [email protected] before Sunday 25 May.
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A WAAF's Tale: The Knicky Chapman Collection
A set of black and white photographs by the amateur photographer who served with the Women's Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF) during the Second World War.
