[1][2] MOPA is one of three museums in the US dedicated exclusively to the collection and preservation of photography, with a mission to inspire, educate and engage the broadest possible audience through the presentation, collection, and preservation of photography, film and video.

[2] It expanded its gallery space and added a classroom, a theater, a print viewing room and a 20,000-volume library.

It has changed in many ways from the past, from photography development to styles, to location, and understanding.

(Seth Combs)[5] Deborah Klochko, MOPA’s executive director and chief curator, believes combining the two museums will create a better space and generate more interest.

(Pam Kragen)[6] Before the establishment of MOPA, It was previously devoted to a photography gallery in Balboa Park as an instrumental non-profit organization.