The best photos of 2011

Volcanic eruptions, civil wars and marriages. It's been a busy year for the world's news photographers.

But while major stories yielded interesting snapshots, some of the year's most memorable photos came from more obscure events.

Helicopter shots of an isolated Amazonian tribe gave viewers an unprecedented look at a land before time, while an image of an abandoned baby seal induced a worldwide chorus of 'awww'.

Keep clicking at the end of this gallery to see the top national, entertainment and world news photos of the year.