Still photography continues to be a significant medium for documenting global events and daily life, particularly for organizations covering the Global South. A selection of top photo-driven stories from 2025 highlighted various international issues and perspectives.
Environmental Documentation
Images from the new book "The Anthropocene Illusion" documented humanity's impact on Earth, featuring visuals such as a polar bear in a zoo and a tree mural obscured by haze.
Public Health Initiatives
In Madagascar, women participated in a photography project by Miora Rajaonary to raise awareness about female genital schistosomiasis (FGS). This disease, transmitted by parasitic worms, affects an estimated 56 million women and girls, primarily in Africa, and is frequently misdiagnosed as a sexually transmitted infection.
Labor Conditions
Photographer Tommy Trenchard documented the demanding and hazardous lives of men, known as "zama zamas" (an isiZulu phrase meaning "those who take a chance"), who salvage coal from abandoned mines.
Cultural Practices
Matilde Gattoni's work explored traditional soup recipes from various cultures, focusing on their perceived therapeutic and comforting qualities.
Access to Medication
Ben de la Cruz captured portraits illustrating the challenges faced by individuals, including a 10-year-old, a house painter, and a mother, in accessing HIV medications in countries such as Zambia. This situation occurred despite such medications being designated for exemption from U.S. aid cuts.
Technology's Global Impact
The website Rest of World conducted a photo contest that received entries from 45 countries, focusing on the influence of technology worldwide. Featured images included facial scans for migrants and children watching films in a Mongolian tent.
Recognition of Women's Contributions
The Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville, Kentucky, hosted a new photo exhibit titled "Iconic Women: From Everyday Life to Global Heroes" in observance of International Women's Day. The exhibit showcased diverse women, ranging from an "analog" astronaut to a watermelon farmer.
Perspectives of Photographers with Disabilities
Eight award-winning photographs by individuals with disabilities were featured, presenting unique visual perspectives. Subjects included a child balancing on a rope, a colorful bird, and fishermen at twilight.