Here’s Hugh Pinney, of Getty Images, on the news images that made 2015 unforgettable…
"In my job as Vice President of News for EMEA at Getty Images, I have seen imagery from all corners of the globe; powerful and extraordinary photos documenting worldwide issues and local stories. Outstanding photographers have shown us the heart-breaking reality of the migrant crisis, the devastating aftermath of natural disasters in Nepal and a city united after the Paris attacks.
"The following photographs have taken foreign issues and helped turn them into a global priority. This is my selection of the 10 images that told some of the defining news stories of 2015."
[All images courtesy of Getty Images]
San Fermin Running of the Bulls 2015 - Day 1, David Ramos
San Fermin or the festival of the running of the bulls in Pamplona is a hardy annual in the coverage diary.
It follows a set routine, there are only so many ways it can be photographed and I always think I have seen them all; yet somehow each year seems to produce something extraordinary – as with this photo which is totally unique and stunning. You just can’t take your eyes off the centre of the frame.
A Total Lunar Eclipse Spawns Blood Supermoon, Matt Cardy
When an astronomical event is dubbed a “Blood Moon” how can anyone resist. The image of the giant moon rising behind Glastonbury Tor is just stunning.
Migrants Arrive On The Beaches Of Lesbos Having Made The Crossing From Turkey, Matej Divizna
Despite bad weather due to the upcoming Autumn, migrants and refugees are risking their lives in search of a better one in the European Union.
Mass Unity Rally Held In Paris Following Recent Terrorist Attacks, Christopher Furlong
‘Je Suis Charlie’, three words uttered the world over. The shock of the Charlie Hebdo attack earlier in the year brought hundreds of thousands of Parisians onto the streets in a massive and impressive show of defiance.
Nicola Sturgeon Joins Alex Salmond On The Campaign Trail, Jeff J Mitchell
This year SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon broke all the rules, and curiously (or not) won in an absolute landslide, virtually wiping out the Labour party in Scotland. I like to consider this a victory for bold politics, standing up for your beliefs and authenticity over spin.
Turkey-Greece-Europe-Migrants, Nilufer Demir
This image single-handedly shifted the world’s perception on the migrant crisis, turning the story from one of a journey, to one about fellow human beings who had chosen to risk absolutely everything – including theirs and their children’s lives – to find peace.
China's Kazakh Minority Preserve Culture Through Eagle Hunting in Western China, Kevin Frayer
In Western China and Mongolia, fur clad men ride small tough ponies and carry giant birds of prey on their arms to hunt for food … and more fur. It looks like a tough life, but makes for amazing images.
Rescue Operations Continue Following Devastating Nepal Earthquake, David Ramos
The earthquake in Nepal felt particularly tragic when it struck, destroying lives, and centuries of heritage. The image of families cremating their dead on the ghats in Kathmandu at night, has a gentle serenity that completely belies the chaotic horror of any earthquake. Somehow making a beautiful image out of a ghastly situation seems a fitting way to represent and recall the event.
Migrants Arrive In Hungary As Fears Grow Over Possible Border Closures, Christopher Furlong
Since the beginning of 2015, the number of migrants using the so-called 'Balkans route' has exploded. The number of people leaving their homes in war torn countries such as Syria, marks the largest migration of people since World War II.
Donald Trump Holds Campaign Rally In Mobile, Alabama, Mark Wallheiser
With the US election campaigns in full flow with 11 months still until polling day, Republican hopeful Donald Trump appears to defy political gravity, gaining in popularity as his views become more extreme.
