The closing date for the National Geographic 2014 Photo Contest is rapidly approaching. Photographers have until 31 October to submit entries in three categories: people, places and nature.

The grand prize winner will receive $10,000 (£6,170) and a trip to the National Geographic headquarters in Washington DC to participate in the annual National Geographic Photography Seminar in January 2015. The first place winner in each category will each receive $2,500 and his or her winning photograph will be published in National Geographic magazine.

IBTimes UK will publish a gallery of the winners once they are announced. Until then, here are 10 inspiring early entries.