A close-up of a grinning American crocodile and a landscape of a purple-hued southern Australian sky are among hundreds of images nominated for a premier international photography prize.
The 2016 National Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year competition wraps this Friday and the photographers who captured the breathtaking images are in the running for the coveted title, as well as a trip for two to the Galapagos Islands.
People from all over the world have submitted photos, the best of which are showcased on the magazine's website, but unfortunately Kiwis aren't eligible.
The competition has four categories - landscape, wildlife portraits, action and environmental issues.
The top three photographs in each category will be rewarded first, second and third prizes.
