Help
Please use the links on the right to explore our Help menus.
What and where is the National Maritime Museum?
Click here to read about the Museum's history, location and collections.
Where can I buy prints?
Please visit our sister website www.nmmprints.com
What's online?
There are over 20,000 images on this website. The Museum holds almost 3 million items in its collection so there are many images not yet online. Each collection item presented here has an accompanying image and a concise, informative caption. So if you can't find what you're looking for, or you've seen something on another of the Museum's websites, please get in touch.
Why should I register?
Registered users can save picture searches, order images online and receive updates about new collections and site developments. Account customers can also apply for high-resolution image download rights, so contact us to discuss this.
How do you supply pictures?
Our service is completely digital and our standard high-resolution file is a 300ppi RGB jpeg, at least 3600 pixels longest side. The master TIF files are available on request at no further charge (if extant). Should you require a larger file, we can rescan to your specification. Every low-resolution preview, and high-resolution image, on this website contains IPTC metadata about the subject, credit and copyright. You will see some uncropped images with colour charts: these are older scans from negative that (though they are a little unsightly) we decided to place online to boost our range of pictures.
How much does it cost to use an image?
It depends on how you wish to use the image. We currently quote reproduction fees on an individual basis. When you've chosen an image(s), place them in a Basket, go to your Basket page and use the PLUS Media Selector to tell us about your intended picture use. Alternatively, you can get in touch using the Contact Us page - please remember to include project details such as title, publication/broadcast date, print run and territorial rights. We offer attractive discounts for bulk image use and are happy to discuss fee agreements.
Do you offer discounted rates for non-commercial projects?
Yes. We encourage the use of our pictures and can usually accommodate the slenderest of budgets. Please contact us to discuss your requirements.
How long does it take to receive images?
Images already available in high-resolution can be supplied same day via direct download, pending agreement to fees. Images that need scanning take 3-5 working days to supply. New photography can be arranged and is subject to quotation; it usually takes a little longer.