Latin America Regional Awards: first look

The Latin America Regional Awards, launched in 2022 by the World Photography Organisation and Sony Latin America, spotlight the vibrant and varied photographic community working within the region.

The results were announced earlier this week and celebrated photographers based in Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guatemala, Mexico and Peru who have entered the Sony World Photography Awards 2024 Open competition.

From evocative portraits to cultural traditions to sun-kissed landscapes, the selected works illustrate the varied and dynamic works created by Latin American photographers.

The winner of the Latin America Regional Awards was revealed to be Marcos Azulay, an Argentinian photographer. The winning picture is a beautifully composed portrait of Azulay’s son. Fidel is seen standing with his back to the camera, holding a bouquet. Shot a few days after his 20th birthday, Fidel is posed amongst blooming flowers and surrounded by nature, a visual metaphor for his son’s youth and his blossoming journey into adulthood.

Speaking about his success, Marcos says: ‘I want to express my sincere gratitude for being selected as the winner in this year’s Latin America Regional Awards. It is a great honour to receive this prestigious recognition.’

The second place was awarded to Jair Fernando Coll Rubiano, a Colombian photographer. In his portrait, Melany Márquez, 9, poses as the ‘Star of Bethlehem’ on the main street of Quinamayó. Quinamayó is an Afro-Colombian community that celebrates Christmas in February, 40 days after the traditional date. 

Rubiano writes about his success: ‘Winning second place in the Latin America Regional Awards is an indescribable thrill. Capturing the essence of a tradition rooted in the history and culture of a nearby community, like celebrating Christmas in February, is an honour.’

Marco Chacana, a Chilean photographer, was announced as the third place winner of the Latin America Regional Awards. Chacana’s black and white action shot beautifully captures the emotions conveyed by the tango dancers. A metropolitan transportation company worker by day, Chacana has been practicing photography for over 30 years and recently began his formal studies.

VIEW RESULTS