Optical absorption and emission spectra are presented for Sm3+ ions in ZnF2-CdF2-based glasses (0.1, 1.5 and 2.5 mol% of Sm3+). The measured oscillator strengths and branching ratios for several transitions are compared with values obtained with the Judd-Ofelt theory. Energy transfer among Sm3+ ions has been investigated. The decay curves are nonexponential when the concentration is 1.5 or 2.5 mol%. It can be explained by cross relaxation between ions of Sm3+. Energy migration does not play a relevant role in these decay processes.