In the course of traveling for almost an entire year -- hitting 17 countries along the way -- photographer Kien Lam took enough shots to create this compelling time-lapse world-tour, set to a score composed by his younger brother William.

"After I quit my job last year," says the older Lam, "I packed a bag, grabbed my camera and bought a one way ticket to London. 17 countries later, I compiled this time-lapse of the many amazing places I came across."

The video was shot with a micro four-thirds camera, a compact format that's rapidly been gaining traction among travelers for its portability.