Year in Focus 2011 Getty Images

From the Arab Spring to Occupy Wall Street, 2011 was a turbulent year. As always, Getty Images photographers were front and center to document the events that mattered, from the devastating earthquake and tsunami in Japan to the joyous occasion of a royal wedding. These images capture the major political conflicts and social issues of our time—as well as highlights in sports, fashion, and entertainment—and shine a light on the emotions of the moment and the significant backstories. The Year in Focus showcases our talented photographers’ and editors’ finest work.