The Helen Bamford papers date from 1911 to 1994 and measure 12.1 linear inches. The papers are arranged in four series: Biographical information, Professional photography, Photographs, and Artifacts.

The Biographical information series (1926-1994, scattered) includes newspaper clippings about Bamford, her obituaries, and diaries from the years 1979, 1981, 1983 and 1989. Account books including household, charity, and medical expenses, and miscellaneous notes in spiral notebooks complete the series.

Bamford's professional career as a photographer is detailed in the series Professional photography (1949-1980) which includes information about the awards she received, memorabilia, and newspaper clippings about her studio, as well as a number of studio portraits.

The Photographs series (1913-1994) includes two albums of family snapshots from the years 1913 to 1941 and various photos of the Bamford family.

A Photography Hall of Fame medal and miscellaneous nametags comprise the Artifacts series (1967, 1969 and undated).