Robert Smits was snorkeling in the mangroves of Jardines de la Reina in Cuba when he spotted a deadly crocodile.
Instead of trying to escape, this 34-year-old grabbed his camera to capture the moment.
Those deadly sharp teeth did not hinder frighten him away. Smits, from Kapellen in Belgium, told MailOnline he was nervous at first, but saw it as an opportunity to photograph the crocodile up close.
Robert Smits says the crocodile enjoyed the attention.Picture: Caters News Agency.
He said: “It is an enormous creature, which is very muscular and sort of a prehistoric, powerful animal. That said, I wasn't too scared. I relished every second of the encounter, as it is highly unlikely you get to have such an experience anytime soon, or anywhere else for that matter.”
According to Smit, the crocodile did not seem agitated at his presence, but was curious at the person who swam in his part of the mangroves.
Robert Smits gets up close and personal with the crocodile. Picture: Caters News Agency.
“There is always risk involved when taking photographs of animals, even of your neighbourhood dog, as you never know how the animal will react to your presence.
I think it is okay to take calculated risks so you can get shots that you want, without harming, relocating or doing anything to the animal,” he told MailOnline.
His bravery resulted in some of the most stunning images.