The IMS has been working tirelessly since 1995 to collect and preserve rare collections of photographs. Some of the outstanding and foundational works in its repertoire include the Gilberto Ferrez collection from the 19th Century, as well as the claude l�vi strauss collection, obtained in the mid-20th Century.

These works are assembled in the cultural center, located in Rio de Janeiro, and cover the central themes of transformation of the urban landscape, colonial and modern architecture, culture and festivals in different regions of the country, urbanization and industrial development, the world of urban and rural work and the natural landscape.

It has under its care more than 800,000 images, including some of the most important testimonials from the 19th Century. With over 40 collections and 19 complete works, the IMS is accredited with being the most important photography institution in the country.

The sophisticated establishment, a landmark of modern architecture from the 1950s, is located in the former house of successful Brazilian banker, politician and philanthropist, Walther Moreira Salles.