Presenting the year's very best wildlife images, this powerful collection of pictures represents the work of many international photographers, both professionals and amateurs. It comprises all the winning and commended photographs from the Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2013 competition, the most prestigious event of its kind in the world. The photographs are chosen by an international jury for their artistic merit and originality, from categories that together represent a diversity of natural subjects. The range of styles is also diverse, as is the genre of photography, whether action, macro, underwater, landscape or environmental reportage. Together this outstanding collection is a reminder of the splendour, drama and variety of life on Earth. Each stunning photograph is accompanied by an extended caption and there will be an introduction by one of the world's most respected nature photographers.

This collection presents the very best of nature photography, featuring the work of ten of the world's foremost photographers. From the evocative artistry of Jim Brandenburg and Vincent Munier to the pioneering underwater photography of David Doubilet and Paul Nicklen, these influential artists display many different ways of seeing the natural world. Marvel at Pal Hermansen's magical use of light and dark, the groundbreaking viewpoints of Frans Lanting, Anup Shah's intimate portraits, the powerful visual statements of Michael Nichols, Thomas D Mangelsen's vast, wild landscapes and Christian Ziegler's gems of wild behaviour. Each portfolio profiles the photographer - his approach, influences and aims - and displays ten iconic images that reflect the range of his work. The accompanying captions focus on why the images are special for the photographer as well as telling the stories behind their creation. Revealing the inspiration behind some of the world's most important nature photographs, this beautiful book will captivate art enthusiasts, photographers and all those with a passion for nature.