The World Photography Organization announced the finalists for the 2015 Sony World Photography Awards. The shortlist was culled from over 170,000 entries submitted by professional and amateur photographers in 171 countries. Here are some of our favorite 14 images from the professional, youth, and open categories.
The winners will be announced April 23, 2015.
(h/t Distractify)

















Image artifacts (diffraction spikes and vertical streaks) appearing in a CCD image of a major solar flare due to the excess incident radiation

Ladder leads out of darkness.Photo credit
Woman's reflection in shadow.Photo credit
Young woman frazzled.Photo credit 
A woman looks out on the waterCanva
A couple sits in uncomfortable silenceCanva
Gif of woman saying "I won't be bound to any man." via
Woman working late at nightCanva
Gif of woman saying "Happy. Independent. Feminine." via 
Yonaguni Monument, as seen from the south of the formation. 
