The winners of the 2019 Sony Alpha Awards

Sony Australia has announced the winners of the annual Alpha Awards in Sydney last night, with New Zealand photographer James Muir taking out the grand prize with his image Fresh Ice, Liquid Salt. 

Over 4,000 images were submitted in the competition, with each category winner receiving $2,000 worth of Sony camera gear, and Muir taking home Sony camera gear to the value of AUD$10,000.

Speaking about the image, Muir said the moment was one he would never forget.

"We had just crossed the polar circle on the way to Antarctica, the captain put a call on the intercom that we were approaching our first iceberg... I was slow to respond and when my friend yelled at me to get on deck pronto, I grabbed my Sony and ran outside onto the ship's deck.

I took 5 photos and then just stood there in awe, tears in my eyes. I feel like viewers get a sense of the grandeur of nature that commands respect and humility."

This year’s Alpha Awards also saw the return of the Youth category, seeking the work of young creatives aged 11-18 years old, who were asked to submit a photo in line with this year’s theme ‘Speed’ via Instagram. Two finalists went head to head in a three-hour photography challenge, with 18 year old Alexi Perris from Adelaide winning with her image 'Commuting'.

Sony's new Instagram account, @sonyalpha.anz, will also play host to the Alpha Awards People’s Choice Award. All finalists’ images can be voted on with a like, from today up until 3 October, 2019. Head here to cast your vote.

You can see all the 24 finalists here, and the category winners below.