How to start your search
The best place to start is with collections search to see what’s available.
The collection is international in scope, but contemporary collecting is focused on British work across all genres and types of filmmaking.
The BFI National Archive contains a huge collection of
- film
- television
- still images
- posters and design
- audio recordings
- books and journals
- personal papers
Use the collections search database to find what you’re looking for.
How to access archive material
Once you’ve found what you’re looking for, you’ll need to contact us through our research viewing service.
Other ways to access archive material
Access for FIAF member archives
We can help FIAF member archives who would like access to film and television material preserved in the BFI National Archive for restoration projects.
Find out moreAccess for donors, rights-holders and copyright owners
We manage access to film and TV material preserved in the BFI National Archive for the organisations or private individuals who donated those materials.
Find out moreHelp with access to moving image collections
If you have a query about access to archive materials and are unsure how to proceed, please get in touch through these contacts.
Find out moreBFI Filmography
A groundbreaking project which compiles a comprehensive list of UK feature films released to cinemas from the beginning of film history until now.
Find out moreMain image caption: Tilda Swinton photographed at the BFI National Archive in Berkhamsted during her visit as part of the BFI LUMINOUS biennial fundraising Gala in 2017.