In essence, "pictures of us" are the artifacts of our shared existence, helping us to see ourselves clearly—even when the view is complex or challenging. The Year in Pictures 2021 - The New York Times

Every year, major news outlets compile "Year in Pictures" features. These collections are more than just a recap; they are a deliberate effort to help us understand a "violent and sometimes inexplicable world". By looking at these pictures, we see:

Images have a unique "special communicative power" that transcends language barriers. They allow us to see the world through the eyes of others—whether it's the grit of a photojournalist on the front lines or the intimate joy of a family in their backyard.