Martha Rosler critiques documentary photography, arguing that it emerged in the early 20th century through photographers like Lewis Hine and Jacob Riis. These photographers used images to raise social awareness and express liberal sentiments. However, Rosler believes documentary photography is problematic as it can manipulate reality and is shaped by the photographer's own biases and perspectives. She argues images should not be taken at face value and urges readers to consider the context and intent behind documentary photos.