The 70 finalists for the 14th Annual Smithsonian Photo Contest have recently been announced, and as you're about to see from this stunning selection, the judges are going to have a very difficult time picking a winner.
The competition received 48,000 submissions from photographers across 146 countries and territories, and voting is now open for the Reader's Choice winner. The voting will be closed on March 27, and the winner will be revealed alongside the Grand Prize and category winners the following day. We have chosen 20 of our favorite photos and we think you'll agree that they're all pretty awe-inspiring.
After you have feasted your eyes upon these stunning photos, head over here to vote for your favorite.This Photographer Creates Uniquely Magical Illusions
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15 Incredible Handmade Leather Creations
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13 Photographs of Stunning Beach Art With Stones
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These Optical Illusions Will Totally Mess With Your Head
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Throwback to the 1920s: 17 Fascinating Vintage Pics
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14 Vivid Portraits of Gorgeous Rare Birds
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16 Of the Best Astronomy Photographs Ever Taken
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Masters of Wood: 15 Stunning Handcrafted Designs
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These brand new around-the-world hotels offer incredible views from some spectacular, exotic locations. You'd never want to leave these hotels.
Stunning Underwater Photography That'll Make Your Jaw Drop
A selection of stunning photos taken from the Underwater Photography Contest 2017.
Between Dream and Reality: Nocturnal Nature Photography
This Chicago-based photographer inserts artificial light into natural environments to create mystifying, ethereal photographs.
These Lighthouses Are Each More Beautiful than the Last...
Used since ancient times, the lighthouse was both a guide and a warning. These monuments are so sturdy, they take nature's beating without a flinch!
This Ukrainian Pastry Chef Creates Cake Masterpieces
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21 Historical Pics That Open a Visceral Window to the Past
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Incredible! A Glimpse Into What Ancient Rome Looked Like
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Step Inside Some of the World's Most Stunning Mosques
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These Stunning Bird Photos are All Award Winners
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