We recently challenged you, our amazing community, to shoot and submit your best photos from the first two weeks of March – and did you ever rise to the occasion! Over 23,000 incredible images later, we’re more convinced than ever that the 500px community is the most talented, most creative group of photographers out there.

Our staff here at 500px HQ had the daunting task of choosing only three submissions to win a coveted 500px swag pack and 1-year free Awesome account. Here are their selections and the reasoning behind their choices – enjoy!

Winning photo #1:

galiya by Inna Mosina

galiya by Inna Mosina on 500px.com

“This image, by photographer Inna Mosina, is unusual and highly intriguing. She has put a great deal of thought into the staging and technical execution, which shows not only in the composition, but in the overall aesthetics. Her beautiful post-processing has enhanced the surreal and playful mood giving success to the final piece.”

– Heather Balmain, 500px Content Editor

Winning photo #2:

Taxiland #7 by Peter Stewart

Taxiland #7 by Peter Stewart on 500px.com

“We loved this unique capture of matching taxi cabs on a Hong Kong freeway! The army of red taxis is totally unexpected and visually striking, and the composition draws your eye right into the image. It’s a great snapshot that perfectly captures the quirky hustle and bustle of Hong Kong.”

– Adriana Manni, 500px Community Engagement Manager

Winning photo #3:

i will never be your stepping stone by Justin Lim

i will never be your stepping stone by Justin Lim on 500px.com

“Moody and evocative, this black and white image by Justin Lim has an effortless vibe that immediately struck a chord with us. From the technique, with its dark tones and heavy fade, right down to the subject’s raw emotion, this shot stood out among the rest.”

– Klassy Goldberg, 500px Social Media Editor

Thank you so much to everyone who participated in this Photo Quest, and congratulations to our winners! We’ll be in touch soon to get your prizes to you. In the meantime, don’t forget to check out our latest Photo Quest, Symmetry, for a chance to win another incredible prize!