We don't need no stinkin' Emmy's! We've got the Lucies instead! The 2009 winners of the International Photography Awards were announced on Saturday honoring dozens of talented photographers.  

The IPA's are the brain child of the Lucie Foundation. This group's self-proclaimed "three-tiered" mission is to honor master photographers, discover and cultivate emerging talent, and promote the appreciation of photography worldwide. In addition to the IPA's the Lucie Foundation sponsors several scholarships, lecture series and exhibits.

Once again, this competition has dredged up some amazing talent, both professional and not, from around the globe. With a vast array of categories,  the IPA sheds light on a number of incredible photographs, as well as giving a well deserved pat of the back to the folks behind the lens... and some cash too. Winners' works will be displayed in a traveling exhibit throughout the year. You can also take a peak online.

Hold your breath though folks, because two awards have yet to be given. The International Photographer of the Year, the Discovery of the Year, and the Deeper Perspective Photographer of the year will be announced at the Lucie Awards. This presentation will happen at the Lincoln Center in New York on October 19. Good luck to those awaiting the decision!

(top photo by Gigi Cifali "Absence of Water" First Place Architecture: Historic Pro)

(bottom photo by  Viktoria Sorochinski "Daddy: Chapter 1" First Place People: Family Non-Pro)