The Sony World Photography Awards aims to promote the work of photographers worldwide and this year’s professional finalists and amateur winners were announced on Tuesday, 17th March. Out of the 186 shortlisted entrants, 44 photographers from 22 countries received accolades in categories including current affairs, sport, arts & entertainment, fashion, music, landscapes, and architecture.

Wojciech Grzedzinski from Poland scooped first place in the “Professional Photojournalism and Documentary – Current Affairs” section with his photograph of a Catholic priest blessing a soldier, seemingly absolving the man from whatever sins he might commit in the name of war.

See more photos at the Sony World Photography Awards winner galleries.