I think every photographer has dreamed about what life could be like as a National Geographic photographer. The magazine epitomizes adventure, mystery, and grandeur. These feelings are evoked mostly though the beautiful glossy images. In honor of 125 years of excellence National Geographic is celebrating the power of photography. They’ve released a special photo issue featuring the magazine’s history of documenting our world through the lens of a camera.

You can pick up a hardcover copy by visiting their online store. Or you can just take some time and click through the amazing stories with their accompanying iconic photos by clicking here.