The Eight Most Iconic National Geographic Photos

By All That's Interesting | Edited By Savannah Cox
Published December 27, 2012
Updated January 22, 2018

Jane Goodall

This photograph captures a tender moment between renown primatologist Jane Goodall and one of the chimpanzees she was studying during her work in the Congo. While this photo is one of many that National Geographic took of the animal enthusiast, this one is well-known for embodying the spirit of her project.

Great White Shark

Great White Sharks are one of the world’s most popular subjects for shark photography thanks to their massive size and menacing appearance. This particular photo by David Doubilet grants the viewer an uncomfortably close look into a devastating Great White bite.

Iconic National Geographic Photos: Polar Beat at Rest

Shot in Canada, this photo depicts one of nature’s most endangered bear species in repose. While most photos of polar bears capture them during predacious hunting trips or defensive care of the young, this photo shows us the other, more tranquil side of Arctic life.

Iconic National Geographic Photos: Ramses Temple

In this photo by David Boyer, the Nile is creeping up on the ancient Ramses Temple in Egypt.

The statues — all depicting the Pharaoh — are an incredible testament to early architecture: at an astonishing six stories high, the temples still stand today despite enduring harsh desert conditions for millenniums.

author
All That's Interesting
author
All That's Interesting
Established in 2010, All That's Interesting brings together a dedicated staff of digital publishing veterans and subject-level experts in history, true crime, and science. From the lesser-known byways of human history to the uncharted corners of the world, we seek out stories that bring our past, present, and future to life. Privately-owned since its founding, All That's Interesting maintains a commitment to unbiased reporting while taking great care in fact-checking and research to ensure that we meet the highest standards of accuracy.
editor
Savannah Cox
editor
Savannah Cox
Savannah Cox holds a Master's in International Affairs from The New School as well as a PhD from the University of California, Berkeley, and now serves as an Assistant Professor at the University of Sheffield. Her work as a writer has also appeared on DNAinfo.
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