Allan Sekula (1951–2013) was an American photographer, writer, and filmmaker known for his critical engagement with documentary photography and his focus on the socio-economic aspects of global capitalism. Born in Erie, Pennsylvania, Sekula studied at the University of California, San Diego, where he later taught as a professor. His work often explored maritime trade, labor relations, and economic inequality, and he was a leading figure in the critique of what he termed the "instrumental realism" of traditional documentary practice.

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Sekula's work is characterized by its intellectual rigor and its commitment to social justice. He often combined photography with text and film, creating multi-layered works that challenged the viewer to engage critically with the subject matter. Notable projects include "Fish Story," a complex narrative about global maritime trade, and "Ship of Fools / The Dockers' Museum," an unfinished project that delved into the lives and struggles of dockworkers.