From September 17 to 23, 2025, a selection of striking vertical images captured significant moments across various spheres, showcasing the unique talent of AP photographers. This gallery serves to reflect the diverse stories that unfolded during the week, conveying emotional depth and cultural resonance.
One of the notable highlights from this week was the fashion scene during Madrid Fashion Week, where a model donned an eye-catching design by De La Cierva y Nicolas. This snapshot, taken by Manu Fernandez on September 19, illustrated the vibrancy and creativity that defined the fashion industry, drawing audiences into the glamour of the runway.
Moving away from the world of fashion, the severe environmental challenges facing regions in India were poignantly illustrated by a photograph of fisherman Sunil Kumar. Captured on August 23, 2025, as he spread a fishing net to clear weeds from Doddajala Lake near Bengaluru, Aijaz Rahi's image highlighted the struggle between natural beauty and ecological issues that many communities navigate in their daily lives.
A deeply moving image emerged from the ongoing conflict in Gaza, where displaced Palestinians were seen fleeing on a vehicle laden with their belongings along the coast near Wadi Gaza on September 22. Abdel Kareem Hana's photograph captured the pain and urgency of their plight amidst a backdrop of turmoil, serving as a poignant reminder of the human cost of conflict.
In a more somber context, the funeral of Lieutenant Colonel Yitzhak Harush was captured on September 19 in Jerusalem. Israeli soldiers carried Harush's coffin during a solemn ceremony at the Mount Herzl military cemetery, highlighting the ongoing sacrifices made by individuals in conflict zones. The photograph taken by Leo Correa brought forth a sense of loss and remembrance.
The week also featured significant political moments, such as President Donald Trump embracing Erika Kirk at a memorial for her late husband, conservative activist Charlie Kirk. This event took place on September 21 at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, captured by Julia Demaree Nikhinson, who provided insight into the intersection of personal grief and public acknowledgment in the political sphere.
Continuing in the political realm, Elon Musk was photographed attending the same memorial service on the same day, reinforcing the convergence of high-profile individuals in moments of collective mourning, as noted in another powerful image by Julia Demaree Nikhinson.
In the sports domain, a thrilling NFL game on September 21 saw Ja'Tavion Sanders of the Carolina Panthers leap over Mike Hughes from the Atlanta Falcons. The dynamic moment was captured in action by Brian Westerholt, demonstrating the exhilarating nature of professional football and the excitement it generates among fans.
The week also highlighted a lighter moment as a dog named Zoe was photographed exiting a room at the Dog Relais, a unique hotel for dogs located at Rome's Fiumicino International Airport. Taken on September 17 by Alessandra Tarantino, the image resonated with pet lovers and showcased the growing trend of pet-friendly accommodations.
On the cultural front, the Miami Marlins made headlines during a game on September 20, where Otto Lopez playfully threw sunflower seeds on his teammate Connor Norby after hitting a solo home run off Jack Leiter of the Texas Rangers. The photograph by Julio Cortez captured the camaraderie and lighthearted spirit that often accompanies the sport.
Moreover, an artistic moment was frozen in time when a pedestrian posed for a photo beside a vibrant floral installation during the city's inaugural art biennial in Bogota, Colombia on September 20. The image, caught by Ivan Valencia, beautifully illustrated the intersection of art and public space in modern urban settings.
Lastly, in a nod to history, the Bucharest Metropolitan Circus performed during an event on September 20 celebrating the 566th anniversary of the Romanian capital's first historical mention. Vadim Ghirda's photograph captured the festive spirit and cultural pride that accompanies such significant local celebrations.
Overall, the week of September 17-23, 2025, encompassed a rich tapestry of human emotion, cultural expression, and historical significance, with each photograph telling a unique story reflective of the time.
