We're thrilled to announce a phenomenal response to our first global photography competition — and it has proven to be really global:

Photographers from 48 countries on six continents submitted more than 6,000 images to the competition.

Entries were received from such diverse countries as Vietnam, Saudi Arabia, Peru and South Korea. The competition also received submissions from 24 European countries, and a strong showing from North America.

The stellar international jury of photography experts is now reviewing and assessing all of the submissions.

Lens Culture will announce the Award winners on October 15, 2009.

We're really excited to see the winning photographs. Thanks to everyone who has participated!

For more details, see Lens Culture International Exposure Awards 2009.