National Geographic has released its highly anticipated Pictures of the Year 2025 collection, featuring 25 extraordinary photographs that capture the most inspiring and defining moments of the past year through the lenses of its world-renowned photographers and editors. The annual showcase represents a carefully curated selection from hundreds of thousands of images captured across more than 20 countries by National Geographic's global network of photographers.
Editor-in-Chief Nathan Lump emphasized the significance of this year's collection in a statement, describing the Pictures of the Year project as "always inspiring and thought-provoking." He explained that each year, photographers and editors meticulously review thousands of images, searching for those rare moments that truly captivate viewers. "Individually, these photographs speak to beauty, fragility, and wonder," Lump noted. "Taken together, I see a collective sense of urgency – a call to preserve what's in danger of being lost, as well as a reminder of the poetic beauty to be found in carrying on, in daring to dream of a better future."
This year's remarkable collection spans the full breadth of National Geographic's storytelling capabilities, featuring intimate wildlife portraits, sweeping landscapes showcasing environmental changes, groundbreaking scientific discoveries, and compelling human narratives from around the globe. The photographs successfully capture nature's most extraordinary moments while documenting cutting-edge exploration and the diverse experiences of people worldwide.
Among the standout images are several groundbreaking photographs that showcase both natural wonders and scientific achievements. The collection includes the first-ever underwater photograph of a great white shark captured in Maine waters, providing an unprecedented glimpse into the marine predator's behavior in northern Atlantic waters. Another remarkable image documents the last Indigenous people of Europe, offering a poignant look at cultural preservation and heritage. The collection also features a striking photograph of a female polar bear feeding atop a sperm whale in the Arctic archipelago of Svalbard, demonstrating the adaptability of wildlife in changing environments.
One of the most scientifically significant images captures the exact moment an egg transforms into a chick, showcasing the incredible precision and artistry possible in wildlife photography. These images, photographed by acclaimed photographers including Roie Galitz, Justin Jin, Anand Varma, and Brian Skerry, represent months or even years of patient work and dedication to their craft.
The photographs collectively paint a sweeping portrait of our changing world, highlighting both the challenges facing our planet and the remarkable resilience of life in all its forms. From environmental conservation efforts to scientific breakthroughs, the images serve as powerful visual narratives that document humanity's relationship with the natural world.
To celebrate this year's collection, National Geographic is inviting audiences worldwide to participate in their own photographic showcase. From November 18 through the end of December, people can share their own photos and videos using the hashtag #NatGeoYourShotPOY25 for a chance to be featured on NatGeoYourShot. Photo Editor Anne Farrar will personally select her favorite submissions by December 31, with chosen images being shared across National Geographic's social media accounts.
The complete Pictures of the Year 2025 collection is available for viewing at NatGeo.com/Photos and will also be featured in National Geographic's December print issue, allowing readers to experience these extraordinary images in both digital and traditional formats.
