In pictures: 2012 Sony World Photography Awards

SOME OF the most breathtaking photography captured last year was unveiled today with the release of the shortlist for the 2012 Sony World Photography Awards.

This year’s competition attracted over 112,000 entries from 171 countries, with the shortlisted images depicting the stories of extraordinary lives from around the world.

W M Hunt, chair of the judging committee, said: “As a judge, you bring an open mind and a passion for photography - its presence and its present, its past and its legacy. You are hopeful and hungry to see great work that is fresh and full, expecting the exceptional. The rewards are rich and delightful. It is a pleasure to present this year’s selections.”

The award ceremony will be held in April 2012.