In many ways, 2021 echoed the tumultuous year that preceded it—from the ongoing global pandemic to political turmoil around the world and record-breaking wildfires. But this year was notable in its own right, with a tense U.S. presidential transition and the slow reintroduction of in-person gatherings. With such a memorable year, National Geographic is back with its second annual Year in Pictures issue.

But this isn’t just “a collection of pretty photographs,” says Whitney Johnson, director of visuals and immersive experiences. She explains that the January issue tells a story of a complicated year through photography.

The world faced many challenges this year, but there are also moments of resilience, levity, and victory reflected in these images—from medical