Visual stories that matter
We safeguard Dutch photographic heritage of the present and future. Then, we make it accessible to the public in all its diversity. In doing so, we always place photography in a contemporary context.
A global leader in collection management
The Nederlands Fotomuseum, National Museum of Photography, is a global leader in collection management and the protection of photographic archives.
The work of the museum, including its exhibitions and public programme, centre around its collection, which is an ever-growing record of Dutch photographic history. The museum has amassed a unique collection for more than 25 years. It is estimated the collection will reach 7.5 million photographic objects by 2028.
Dutch photography - the past and future
The Nederlands Fotomuseum is the most important centre for the display, conservation, collecting and study of photography from the Netherlands. One of our earliest images is a daguerreotype from 1842.
Thank you, Hein Wertheimer and so many others
The Nederlands Fotomuseum was founded in 2003 thanks to a gift by Hein Wertheimer. A passionate amateur photographer, he donated the equivalent of 11.2 million euros to establish a museum for Dutch photography.
The Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science and the City of Rotterdam have also contributed financially since the museum began. Thanks to the generosity of the Droom en Daad Foundation, the museum was able to purchase the Santos warehouse in 2023.
Earlier this year the Wertheimer Foundation advised the Cultuurfonds, which manages the Wertheimer Fonds, to donate extra funds to create a darkroom in the museum. The darkroom, which will bear the name of Hein Wertheimer, is available for amateur and professional photographers.
Annual reports
Every year, the Nederlands Fotomuseum creates an annual report with museum activities for that year. Our most recent reports are available to download (Dutch only).
To download, click year.
Get involved, make a difference
Your involvement helps us safeguard Dutch photographic heritage. So we can create inspiring exhibitions, introduce young people to photography and organize events.
The Nederlands Fotmuseum, National Museum of Photography, needs your help. Become a Friend, Fan, Ambassador or a Collection Council Member.
If your company wants to increase brand awareness or reach an upscale demographic, think about becoming a Business Partner. Contact our programme advisor Cathelijne Beckand Verwé for details. You can reach her at: cbeckandverwee@nederlandsfotomuseum.nl or 06-43513929.