The Associated Press has unveiled its latest collection of standout vertical photographs, specifically curated for mobile viewing and capturing powerful moments from around the globe during the week of November 12-18, 2025. These carefully selected images showcase the diverse range of human experiences, from environmental activism to religious devotion, spanning multiple continents and cultures.
Environmental activism took center stage in Brazil, where artist MUNDANO made a powerful statement at the COP30 U.N. Climate Summit in Belem on Tuesday, November 18. The Brazilian artist incorporated ashes collected from actual wildfires into his demonstration, creating a visceral reminder of forest destruction. His participation was part of broader efforts to raise awareness about environmental degradation during the crucial climate summit.
In Washington D.C., social justice advocacy was prominently displayed on Monday, November 17, when activists Liz Stein and Danielle Bensky embraced during a demonstration outside the National Gallery of Art. Behind them, a projection reading "World Without Exploitation" illuminated the gallery wall, as protesters called on Congress to support the Epstein files transparency act, highlighting ongoing efforts for government accountability and transparency.
Religious observance featured prominently in multiple locations across the globe. In Tehran, Iran, worshippers gathered at the shrine of Saint Saleh on Friday, November 14, offering prayers for rain amid what appears to be drought conditions. The scene captured the intersection of faith and environmental concerns in the region.
Meanwhile, in Chakla, West Bengal, India, devotees participated in the Hindu religious festival of Rakher Upobash on Saturday, November 15. The festival involves a daylong fast followed by overnight prayers, with participants holding lamps during rituals seeking spiritual purification while honoring Hindu saint Loknath Brahmachari. The image captured the warm glow of traditional oil lamps against the backdrop of devotional worship.
Sports photography highlighted international winter athletics, with Italy's Tommaso Sala captured at the starting line of a men's World Cup slalom event in Levi, Finland, on Sunday, November 16. The alpine skiing competition represented the beginning of the winter sports season, showcasing the precision and focus required at the highest levels of competitive skiing.
Political imagery emerged from Venezuela, where a resident walked past a large mural depicting President Nicolas Maduro in Caracas on Monday, November 17. The street art serves as a reminder of the ongoing political tensions and the prominent role of visual propaganda in Venezuelan society.
Hollywood glamour was on display at the 16th Annual Governors Awards on Sunday, November 16, at The Ray Dolby Ballroom in Los Angeles. Tom Cruise and Wynn Thomas posed together after receiving Academy honorary awards, representing recognition for outstanding contributions to the film industry. The event highlighted the continuing celebration of cinematic achievement and the industry's tradition of honoring career accomplishments.
Immigration activism was documented in the Chicago suburb of Broadview, Illinois, on Friday, November 14, where a protester was photographed praying outside an ICE processing facility. The image captured the human element of ongoing immigration debates and the role of faith in protest movements.
Cultural diplomacy took place at the Vatican on Saturday, November 15, when renowned film director Spike Lee was captured gesturing as he departed from an audience with Pope Leo XIV. The meeting brought together cinema professionals and religious leadership, representing the intersection of arts and spirituality on an international stage.
Entertainment spectacle was showcased through Cirque du Soleil's OVO show in Mexico City on Wednesday, November 12, where an acrobat was captured mid-performance. The image demonstrated the artistry and physical prowess that defines the internationally acclaimed circus company's productions.
The collection concluded with a stunning architectural and celestial photograph from Istanbul, Turkey, taken early Friday, November 14. The crescent moon was captured rising behind both the Camlica mosque and the historic Galata tower, creating a striking composition that blended religious architecture with natural beauty against the city's skyline.
These vertical images, optimized for mobile viewing, represent the Associated Press's commitment to adapting visual journalism for modern consumption patterns while maintaining the high editorial standards and global perspective that define professional photojournalism.
