1st place: This is quite clearly the standout image promoted this year. The single best photograph of a nuclear explosion is my number one pick for POTY 2009, and in fact I'm willing to bet it makes at least the top three.

2nd place: A striking animal photograph and one of the best Commons has.

3rd place: Much has been said about the rising superpower PRC. This picture embodies Chinese militarism and captures the essence of recent western media reports about China.

4th place: An amazing portrait of both a person and a religion.

4th place: It's pictures like this that stand out. The composition (taken facing the propellor) is highly unusual.

5th place: The second amazing animal picture promoted this year. The composition is simply perfect.

6th place: The U.S. armed forces are one of the largest contributors to Commons, and they seem to have some great photographers, too.

7th place: My personal favourite and one of the most melancholic and atmospheric pictures I have ever seen.

8th place: A fantastic action shot. Motion blur is used perfectly to show the motorcycle's speed.

9th place: Sunset pictures are a dime a dozen, but this one stands our from the rest.

10th place: Perfect quality and vibrant colors make this photograph one of the finest promoted this year.