Image description
Shamans play a major role in Native Bolivian traditional culture. This scene was captured above La Paz, Bolivia.
Shortlist
Akram Menari
Get Ready!
The intricate details of the horse’s hoof emphasise its strength and poise; the hoof appears taut and ready for action, perfectly in sync with the rider preparing to engage in the equestrian sport. The photograph was taken just before the game began, evoking a sense of anticipation for the challenge ahead and highlighting the horse’s vital role.
© Akram Menari, Algeria, Shortlist, Open Competition, Travel, 2025 Sony World Photography Awards
Nicola Ducati
Untitled
The Maasai are a semi-nomadic ethnic group living in remote areas of Kenya and Tanzania. Thanks to their isolation and deeply rooted traditions, they have preserved their unique cultural identity for centuries. They are known for their distinctive attire, which includes brightly coloured shukas worn by both men and women, as well as their elaborate beadwork and cowhide sandals.
© Nicola Ducati, Italy, Shortlist, Open Competition, Travel, 2025 Sony World Photography Awards
Spyridon Gennatas
Romance at the Windmills
This couple found the time for some romance at the Kinderdijk windmills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Netherlands.
© Spyridon Gennatas, Greece, Shortlist, Open Competition, Travel, 2025 Sony World Photography Awards
Kunal Gupta
The Colours of the Andes
Set against the awe-inspiring backdrop of Peru’s Rainbow Mountain, two elegantly adorned alpacas stand as symbols of the rich Andean culture and the timeless bond between humans and nature. The vibrant hues of their traditional decorations reflect the mountain’s colourful layers. This scene is a reminder of how travel enriches us, offering deeper connections to diverse cultures and a profound appreciation for the beauty of the world.
© Kunal Gupta, India, Shortlist, Open Competition, Travel, 2025 Sony World Photography Awards
Mike Hellebrand
Monument Valley
A light trail in Monument Valley, USA.
© Mike Hellebrand, United Kingdom, Shortlist, Open Competition, Travel, 2025 Sony World Photography Awards
Karolina Jurkiewicz
Eternal Light, Timeless Rock
The soft rays of the sun envelop Elephant Rock, a majestic rock formation in Saudi Arabia, during a breathtaking sunset. The scene is enriched by the presence of a child running towards the light, adding a sense of wonder and the spirit of exploration.
© Karolina Jurkiewicz, Poland, Shortlist, Open Competition, Travel, 2025 Sony World Photography Awards
Britt Knierim
Untitled
A train in Sri Lanka.
© Britt Knierim, Netherlands, Shortlist, Open Competition, Travel, 2025 Sony World Photography Awards
Liu Song
Abseil
A tourist descends by rope into Tianyan cave in Chongqing, China. The unique karst cave contains a large Buddha statue that draws tourists from around the world.
© Liu Song, China Mainland, Shortlist, Open Competition, Travel, 2025 Sony World Photography Awards
Chim Oanh
Incense Flowers
Workers dry colourful incense before taking it to sell at the market. The incense is dried on the ground, where it takes on the form of beautiful flowers. According to Vietnamese tradition, incense connects the present world with the spiritual world.
© Chim Oanh, Vietnam, Shortlist, Open Competition, Travel, 2025 Sony World Photography Awards
Shubhodeep Roy
Eternal Silence at Dawn
In the tranquil early morning light, a man performs a sacred water offering along the ghats of the Ganges River in Varanasi, India. The calm water reflects the soft glow of the city’s distant lights, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere. This photograph captures the spiritual essence of Varanasi, where daily rituals and prayers connect the faithful to the divine.
© Shubhodeep Roy, India, entry, Open Competition, Travel, 2025 Sony World Photography Awards
Arun Saha
Floating Market of Myanmar
Early in the morning, hundreds of vendors come to sell everyday necessities to both local consumers and tourists at Myanmar’s Inle Lake. These floating markets are a lifeline for the Inle Lake residents who live far from urban centres.
© Arun Saha, India, Shortlist, Open Competition, Travel, 2025 Sony World Photography Awards
Khai Chuin Sim
Wings of Tradition
This pair of Kazakh eagle hunters was photographed in the vast and rugged landscape of western Mongolia. Clad in intricately detailed fur garments, they sit atop sturdy horses, with golden eagles perched majestically on their arms. Kazakh eagle hunters, also known as berkutchi or kusbergi, are a significant part of Kazakh culture; this ancient tradition has been passed down for generations.
© Khai Chuin Sim, Malaysia, Shortlist, Open Competition, Travel, 2025 Sony World Photography Awards
Ryo Yamamoto
Night Kick off the Sun
Lake Tyrell, Victoria, Australia.
© Ryo Yamamoto, Japan, Shortlist, Open Competition, Travel, 2025 Sony World Photography Awards