The theme of this thesis arises from the pursuit of a proper understanding of the role of photographic media in the formation of social awareness. Starting with the historical development of photography, through the classification and setting the guidelines for social documentary photography specifically, we come to an approximate picture of the opportunities it provides to inspire change in the world. The role and importance of photography are further explored in the following chapters where through elaborating the concept of social commentary, one enters into understanding of its successful realization through the benefits of the documentary genre. The most extensive research concerns the analysis of those photographs that have influenced the direction of social attitudes throughout history, as well as the review of photographers who have made significant comments. This enables the observation of patterns and characteristics necessary to formulate assumptions about the possibilities that exist. And how the applying of digital manipulation techniques, while looking at the digital age, provides insight into the semantic value of today’s photography. Although most research for this thesis can be observed as secondary sourced information, the conclusions drawn are based on personal thoughts and observations. The paper also includes an experimental section that tests different digital processing techniques, with the aim of stimulating emotional performance by emphasizing the desired message.