Two Chinese photographers have picked up awards at the World Press Photo 2004, one of most authoritative photography contests in the world.

Freelance photographer, Lu Guang's "Aids Village, Henan Province" has earned him the top prize in the Contemporary Issues Stories category.

Qiu Yan, from Wuhan Evening News, took third prize in the Daily Life Singles category, with his piece titled "Bridal Couple Crossing the Street", featuring a wedding ceremony held during the SARS outbreak.

61 photographers from some 23 countries were awarded at this year's World Press Photo, held in the Dutch capital of Amsterdam.

(CRI February 15, 2004)