From the Animals category. ‘Suspended’ © Joao Pontes / CUPOTY

Every year, toward the end of summer, the Algarve in Portugal is inundated with juvenile chameleons. They become more active as the Sun climbs higher in the sky, setting off to explore the world around them.

The finalists for this year’s Close-up Photographer of the Year (CUPOTY) have been announced — a competition showcasing the very best of close-up, macro and micro photography.

A record 15,388 images were entered into this year’s competition. Everything from acrobatic chameleons and nose-picking birds to opportunistic ants and spawning salmon was put before a panel of expert judges.

From the Invertebrate Portrait category. ‘Leafcutter Bee’ © Andrei Chetronie / CUPOTY

This leafcutter bee was holding on for dear life on a sweet pea flower after rainfall. Taken in Shropshire, UK.

From the Animals category.…