The project "Critique of Photography" is understood as a theoretical determination of photography that goes beyond the existing art and media studies approaches. For the first time, the constitutive elements of the medium that distinguish photography from other image media are identified and articulated, thereby establishing an independent theory of photography. The material foundations are the productions of the early period in the 1830s and 40s, which are viewed in the context of the development of apparatus-based image media as well as scientific and cultural frameworks in the fields of astronomy, optics, theater, literature, exhibitions, and more, up to the mid-19th century. Specific attention is also given to later visual phenomena up to the present day, as well as aspects of reception history. The presentation is organized into 31 independent chapters, accompanied by a total of approximately 230 illustrations.