This is a total contrivance, but it does seem to work ...
WriteableBitmapFromBitmapImageExtension.FromBitmapImage() works by using the original Uri used to load BitmapImage and IIRC it only works with BitmapImages from the appx. In your case there isn't even a Uri since loading from Pictures folder can only be done by loading from stream, so your options from the fastest to slowest (I think) are.
I cant really gove you an answer,but what I can give you is a way to a solution, that is you have to find the anglde that you relate to or peaks your interest. A good paper is one that people get drawn into because it reaches them ln some way.As for me WW11 to me, I think of the holocaust and the effect it had on the survivors, their families and those who stood by and did nothing until it was too late.