By Patrick Avenell

SYDNEY, NSW: Sony Australia has this afternoon announced its World Photography Awards, what it calls one of the largest global photographic competitions. The goal of this promotion is to find the best amateur football photos in the world, with the winning snapper being flown to South Africa for the 2010 World Cup.

“Combining the global love for football and sports photography, the Campaign Award seeks to find an image that captures the emotion and the passion of football from the fan’s point of view: the highs, the lows, and the incredible lengths supporters will go to support their teams,” said a Sony spokesperson.

Sony reported that all submitted images will be shown on a website gallery to be rated by the public. The 100 most popular images will then be judged by a panel chaired by Australian sports photographer Delly Carr.

The competition is free to enter, and submissions close on 4 December 2009.

The overall winner of the Campaign Award will receive two tickets to the 2010 World Cup, including travel and accommodation, VIP tickets to the Sony World Photography Awards in Cannes and a DSLR camera and lens.

In addition, amateur photographers can enter the Sports category, part of the main awards competition.  Up to three images taken during 2009 can be submitted with the successful candidate being crowned Sony World Photography Awards Amateur Photographer of the Year, and being awarded US$5,000 and Sony camera equipment.