THE incredible images which have helped shape the news over the past 12 months are the focus of an awards show which rewards only the best of the best.
Since 1955 the World Press Photo Contest has recognised the work of the elite professional photographers covering the planet’s most important stories.
2019 MATTHEW ABBOTT The moment flames engulf eucalyptus trees forcing Australian firefighters to abandon their truck[/caption]
They are the people which put their lives on the line every day to capture the photos which will be printed online, in newspapers and broadcast around the globe.
This year, the long-running contest saw around 4,000 photographers from 125 countries enter more than 73,000 gripping and candid pictures.
Included are images of the devastating bush fires which ravaged Australia, deadly air disasters, street riots and even a bizarre Nazi-themed boat ride.
The winners will be announced at the 63rd awards show which is taking place in Amsterdam in mid April.
In the meantime, here are some of the amazing pictures which have made it onto the hotly-contested shortlist…
