Answer: Yes, they are.
Explanation: Photography captures reality rather than creating a subjective reality. Events can be shared easier in a photo than in real life. Famous people like Charles Moore took a picture of a dog that managed to rip a man's pants from the ankle. It seems like the man is urging the dog instead of stopping it. Other pictures like captured fights and barbarity can spread awareness across the world. A couple got into an alcoholic fight, a friend of theirs got a chance to snap a picture. They decided to spread domestic violence throughout America after taking the picture.
If you need me to say more, I gladly will. I hope I Helped <3