Australian-born photographer Peter Lik has reportedly made history by selling his photograph, Phantom, for a world record $7.8 million.

Phantom, a black-and-white depiction of a ghostlike figure, was taken in Arizona's Antelope Canyon and sold to a private collector, the photographer said.

"The purpose of all my photos is to capture the power of nature and convey it in a way that inspires someone to feel passionate and connected to the image," Lik said.

The black-and-white Phantom is a rare departure from Lik's normal style of capturing vibrant colours.

"Certain textures and contours found in nature lend themselves beautifully to black-and-white photography," he said.

The private buyer indicated via legal representation that he preferred not to be publicly identified for security and privacy reasons.

The sale has not been independently verified.

Born in Melbourne to Czech immigrants, Lik began capturing aspects of nature as a young boy.

At the age of eight he received a gift of a Kodak Brownie camera from his parents.

In 1984, he migrated to the US, discovering his passion for panoramic photography and becoming a naturalised citizen in 2013.

He has been awarded the title of master photographer from both the Australian Institute of Professional Photography (AIPP) and Professional Photographers of America (PPA).