Jacob Riis documented tenement housing conditions in late 19th century New York City through photographs showing overcrowded housing, including cellars and rooftops used for living spaces. The photos depict poor sanitation and living conditions, such as bunk beds rented out for 7 cents and a man living in a cellar for 4 years, as well as images of labor like sweat shops and socialization spaces like Gotham Court. Riis captured children and families living in poverty through photographs of activities like a street gang, boys demonstrating a trick, and where little boys slept.