The Visual Sub-collection holds a wide range of photographic materials in multiple physical formats, including 35mm slides, negative films and photographic prints, dating from the 1960s to the early 2000s. These materials document a period marked by the widespread use of slide-based photography and the subsequent transition towards digital documentation and practices between the 1990s and early 2000s.

Beyond serving as visual records, the materials record a range of Museum- and science-related activities, including field expeditions conducted across Singapore and the region, specimen collection and preservation, laboratory and research work, exhibition development, as well as aspects of the Museum’s day-to-day operations. The collection offers a visual record of historical research and practices, institutional development, and the evolving methods of scientific documentation.

Notable holdings include 35mm slides by entomologist Prof D. H. Murphy documenting his mangrove research in Singapore in 1976; 35mm slides by LKCNHM Research Affiliate, Dr Ng Ngan Kee of her carcinological research and fieldwork in places such as Japan, India and China between 1997 and 2000; and 35mm slides by Museum staff members, Dr Tan Heok Hui and Mr Kelvin Lim reflecting research activities since 1981. The Visual sub-Collection also features an extensive 35mm slide series by Prof Leo Tan documenting his work on Labrador Park and other conservation initiatives in Singapore.