A year in pictures: photographers pick their favourite moments of 2025

Sometimes it is a special event, sometimes just a very special moment, and sometimes a combination of both. The photographers of Mediahuis Luxembourg, which publishes the Luxembourg Times but also the Luxemburger Wort, Virgule and Contacto take a look back at the pictures and people that stayed with them long after the shutter closed.

In some cases, the significance of a shot only became apparent in retrospect, when reviewing the images. We asked our colleagues from the photo and video editorial team to share their favourite photos from the year now drawing to a close. Some of these images have already been published, while others have not.

Witnessing four grand ducal generations

“I was deeply moved to see Mrs Marie Ginter-Bonichaux walking the red carpet with such energy,” says photographer Anouk Antony. The 101-year-old, who has witnessed four generations at the Grand Ducal court, did not want to miss the Te Deum marking the change of throne.

Explosion of light in the court

The Bommeleeër attacks and the related trials have occupied journalists and photographers for decades. Marc Wilwert has frequently been present in the courtroom and captured this image at one of the hearings. “A beam of light, like an explosion,” the photographer says, describing the moment caught by chance.

Also read:Luxembourg’s second Bommeleeër trial set to open

In a large arc from the air

Just over a year after its predecessor was demolished, the new Hammerel Bridge was officially opened in Bettemburg in April. Photographer Chris Karaba was on site and decided to use a drone, “because this perspective offers me a more relevant representation of the event,” he explained.

Between art and precision

Patty Rausch brings art to life on the body. Photographer Eva Krins accompanied the tattoo artist and selected an image she particularly liked: “This photo embodies passion and art, and powerfully illustrates the precision, patience and accuracy of the movement.”

Moments of joy and exhaustion

Photographer Christophe Olinger attended the trade union demonstration at the end of June and captured two striking and contrasting impressions: one of joy and one of exhaustion. “In my opinion, they capture the essence of the struggle to preserve the social achievements generations have fought for,” he explained.

Also read:Thousands join union protest march through capital against government reforms

From the high seat to the low mood

Photographer Anouk Antony was in the forest in the early hours of the morning when the sight of this hunting stand filled her with sadness. “This mood made me consciously reflect on death,” she said, putting herself in the position of an animal. “For me, this high seat means seeing, feeling, smelling and breathing one last time. Then a single shot, and life is extinguished.”

Human moments in the protocol

The change of throne on 3 October was undoubtedly the defining event in Luxembourg in 2025, and all photographers were present. Gerry Huberty captured this intimate moment between father and son during a defining event for the country.

The only thing that helps now is to stick together

Severe flooding left a trail of devastation in Pulvermühle. Some houses were so badly damaged that they had to be demolished. Many residents, like these two women, tried to save what could still be saved. Photographer Marc Wilwert was deeply affected by the scale of the destruction. “It’s unbelievable how heavy rainfall and torrential rain can destroy entire properties in one night and cause immense suffering,” he said. “It really gets to you.”

Also read:Luxembourg City to demolish two flood-damaged houses after purchase

Black wisdom on the lantern

Ravens are among Anouk Antony’s favourite birds. “They look down on us humans with pride and even try to imitate us,” she said. The photographer enjoyed capturing these two ravens in her viewfinder. “They observe us shrewdly and sometimes even try to trick us,” she is convinced.

Jumps through parallel worlds

Daredevil acrobatics against an impressive backdrop: photographer Marc Wilwert was out in the capital photographing skateboarders, inline skaters and BMX riders for a short series in the Luxemburger Wort’sWeekend magazine. “For me, these fringe sports represent a small parallel world where like-minded people meet, exchange ideas and support one another,” he said. “A microcosm that fascinates me.”

Open door for heavy artillery

In June, around 17,000 people took the opportunity to look behind the scenes of the Luxembourg Army during the open day at the Härebierg military barracks. It was a day of discovery, diversity and passion for military professions, and for photographer Eva Krins, “a powerful image that perfectly illustrates the spirit of cohesion that characterised the event.”

Explosive birthday party

To celebrate the 30th anniversary of the music club den Atelier, the organisers hosted a series of concerts. The charismatic singer Beth Ditto was also part of the celebration. Photographer Chris Karaba captured moments of her explosive performance, resulting in this atmospheric image.

Time to say goodbye

With the end of his reign, Grand Duke Henri is also stepping back from public duties. Photographer Eva Krins documented his visit to the national rescue corps CGDIS. “This emotional moment had a very special impact just weeks before the end of the Grand Duke’s reign,” she said, speaking of “moments of simplicity and a touch of magic.”

A new start for the monarchy

Henri and Maria Teresa made way for the next generation, Guillaume and Stéphanie, who celebrated the transition with several days of festivities at the beginning of October. Photographer Gerry Huberty captured one of the many highlights.

“It remains to be seen how the new Grand Ducal couple will master the challenges ahead,” he said. “However, their confident yet approachable manner during the celebrations has already put many sceptics in a more positive frame of mind and generated new support for the monarchy.”

(This article was first published on the Luxemburger Wort. Translated using AI, edited by Lucrezia Reale).

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A year in pictures: photographers pick their favourite moments of 2025