These are the amazing close up pictures of North Korea's mass games - after photographers were previously banned from taking shots so close to the dazzling formation dances.They feature over 100,000 people in the performing art displays that include tens of thousands of gymnasts synchronizing movements in line with a background of card-turners who entertain spectators. About 20,000 of them form the background to the show holding large books whose pages flip simultaneously to produce the huge displays.The rapid change of images sees one card exchanged for another in a swift and synchronized movement that takes hours of rehearsals and detailed choreography.Photographer Werner Kranwetvogel, 40, captured the stunning shots after he gained rare access to the communist country's public displays.
A weightlifter has lost a whopping 12st after swapping biscuits for biceps .
WITH their robotic movements and pristine uniforms, these are the sexy traffic girls of North Korea that are becoming iconic figures in the secretive state .
WEARING tiny Christmas accessories, these adorable babies get into the spirit of the season .
A northern potoo shows it is a master of disguise as it perches on a tree stump and blends into the bark .
SAT happily on the branch of a tree, this little frog appears unfazed by a surprise visitor .
A Kermit the Frog toy made famous by travelling the world is still globehopping, having racked up an incredible 420,000 kilometres to some of the world's furthest flung places .
An elegant snowy owl spreads her wings and glides effortlessly above the snow covered field .
A Hereford woman has lost 10st 3lbs after ditching her £260-a-month takeaway habit .
Marina Afonina, now 51, from Northampton, met Ioan Budea in 2006 .
LYING flat out on his back, this little meerkat makes the most of the English sunshine .
If you tune into primetime coverage of the 2012 Olympic Games, you’re most likely going to see London’s new Aquatic Center from many angles as athletes from all around the globe compete for the top spot on the podium .