Hold your breath for 2017’s Sony World Photography Shortlist

Sony’s shortlisted photos competing in the world’s largest photography contest will make you believe in a charmed surrealism through its magnificent array of photos. The tenth Sony World Photography Awards gathered photographers from 49 countries. The short list was selected from a staggering number of 227,596 images, coming in from 183 countries, including first time submissions from Armenia, Cuba, Iceland, and Saudi Arabia. Winning photographers will be announced on 20 April.

Diamond Dust
Masayasu Sakuma, Japan
A surreal harmony of diamond dust, only to be witnessed during the coldest season

Poignant Reflection
Barry Tweed-Rycroft, United KingdomAn upside down world, reflected in a puddle.

A Towering Personality
Rob Wilson, CanadaA moment of surrender to to Mother Nature

When dreams come true
Francesco Russo, ItalyThe plain of Castelluccio Landscape cascaded with flowers in Sibillini Mountains National Park, Italy.

A Watery Stage
Andreas Hemb, Sweden
Across a starlit night, together they stand

When the night deepens
Zhu Jianxing, China
Caught by the light of the fireflies

Silent Kingdom
Christian Vizl, Mexico
What lies beneath the waves

The flamingo dance
Meniconzi Alessandra, Switzerland
The assemble of the flamingo in the still of the day

Zen Martials
Luo Pin Xi, China
Shaolin Kung Fu  Zen warriors beating all odds

As the sun goes down
Lars Sivars, SwedenA mystical Manhattan sunset