Hi Rob,

I would be very suprised if they are real photographs, although I must say before I go on that this is irrelevant in this case. They are a great example of propaganda from the time and you must be very happy to have added them to your collection.

Anyway. Why do I think they aren’t photographs?

To start with, try taking a picture of a fire with a modern camera. Difficult to get detail in the flames. Now try doing it at night, with a plate camera using glass negs. Ouch….

Also, if you look at the angle, the photographer is either in a plane, or far away, both of which would add to the difficulties. Or he could be on a hill; too much of a handy coincidence for me.

I tend to agree with Mondariz. Best effort tarted up for public consumption.

Fantastic however you look at it though.

Why not pop next door to the RAF Museum and see if they can help.

Iain