The Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer production and biography photographs span the years 1921-1973 (bulk 1925-1973) and encompass 737 linear feet consisting of approximately one million photographic prints. Nearly all of the films were distributed by Metro-Goldwyn (1924-1925) or Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (1925-1973); a few pre- 1924 films were released by Metro, Goldwyn, or Goldwyn-Cosmopolitan. The feature films consist of scenes from 1,665 motion pictures. Also included are off-camera photographs, portraits of players in character and costume for their roles, as well as general publicity shots. The short films consist of scenes from 1,322 motion pictures, with occasional off-camera photographs, portraits of players in character and costume for their roles, and general publicity shots. The MGM-distributed shorts include those produced by MGM, those produced by Hal Roach between 1927 and 1937, and a small number of shorts produced independently. Most of the MGM shorts were released as parts of various ongoing series, including travelogues and animated cartoons. At least 50 of these series are represented, with familiar names such as James FitzPatrick, Pete Smith Specialties and, beginning in 1938, MGM Cartoons. The biography files contain portrait, candid, and general publicity photographs not relating to productions for 2,328 individuals. Actors and actresses, directors, writers, composers, executives, cinematographers, producers, editors, and other motion picture craftpersons are among those depicted.

Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, an American motion picture production company, was formed in 1924. The studio was located in Culver City, California. MGM was formed when the theater circuit Loew's Inc., owner of Metro Pictures Corporation, acquired Goldwyn Pictures Corporation and Louis B. Mayer Pictures and subsequently merged the three companies. Acquired by a consortium of investors in 2005, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, Inc., continues to function as a film production and distribution company out of its Century City, California headquarters.

737 linear feet of photographs.

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