A RENOWNED printer has hung up her apron for the last time after 35 years reproducing photographs by one of the world’s most acclaimed war photographers.

Carole Callow, from Eastbourne, has been responsible for printing legendary British Vogue war photographer Lee Miller’s work for her archive.

Lee Miller, born in 1907, was a surrealist photographer whose work included some of the most striking images from the Second World War.

American-born Miller moved to Farleys House, in the village of Chiddingly, near Hailsham, in 1949.

Ms Callow has been curator of the Lee Miller Archives for the past 35 years, playing an important role in archiving the collection. She is also the sole printer of the photos on black-and-white film.

Speaking about her retirement, she said: “I’ve mixed feelings but I’m satisfied with what I’ve achieved. Since I began working at the archives, techniques in photography have moved on from an analogue to digital world. My comfort zone is with the former. Darkroom work requires commitment and patience as results do not always come instantly.”

Following Ms Callow’s retirement, Lee Miller Archives bosses have decided to no longer print her work in the dark room at Farleys House.

One of the few people in the world to have worked closely with Miller’s original material, Ms Callow is known for her sensitive interpretation of Miller’s work, printing the images provided for many of the Lee Miller book publications, print sales and major exhibitions mounted throughout the world.

The photographs will now be printed digitally from Miller’s original negatives.

Miller’s son Anthony Penrose, co-founder of the Lee Miller Archives, said: “It’s been Carole’s sensitive and skilled printing of these images that has made a huge difference because all the major exhibitions use Carole’s prints.”

Speaking about her admiration for Miller, Ms Callow said: “I admire her strength and determination, she was one the pioneers for women in photography.

“Lee has inspired many. Her body of work is so diverse from the elegance of fashion to the horror and destruction of war.”