Nikon Small World Photomicrography Contest Reveals Microscopic Wonders
The 2026 competition showcases stunning microscopic imagery ranging from inkjet ink to neurons.
12026 Competition Winners Announced
The 2026 Nikon Small World Photomicrography Competition has officially unveiled its winning entries, highlighting the intersection of art and scientific observation. These images capture intricate details invisible to the naked eye, ranging from biological structures to mechanical processes. The contest continues to serve as a premier platform for global microscopic photography.
2Top Prize for Inkjet Detail
Ole Bielfeldt, a student and experimental photographer based in Cologne, Germany, secured the first-place position. He utilized a custom, hand-built rig to document the precise moment droplets of ink are deposited onto paper within an inkjet printer. This technical achievement demonstrates the creative potential of combining engineering with high-magnification imaging.
3Diverse Biological Subject Matter
The competition featured a wide array of subjects, including Kaelin Wulf and Rachel Flannery’s detailed capture of neurons within an expanded mouse brain. Other notable entries included John-Oliver Dum’s portrait of a jumping spider covered in pollen and Dr. Julien Resseguier’s visualization of mouse trachea cells and associated nerve structures in Norway.
4Microscopic Life and Structures
Beyond animal subjects, the contest highlighted botanical and fungal specimens. Mike Crutchley captured Pilobolus fungi growing on sheep dung, while Jan Martinek showcased the natural autofluorescence of a common daisy flower head. These images provide researchers and the public alike with a unique perspective on the complex structures found in nature.
5Technical Imaging of Extremophiles
Charles Krebs contributed an Image of Distinction featuring a tardigrade, commonly known as a water bear. The photograph clearly displays the organism's piercing stylets and pharynx, which are essential for its feeding process. Such imagery allows for a deeper understanding of microscopic anatomy and the survival mechanisms of these resilient creatures.
6Global Participation and Recognition
Participants from various countries, including Russia, Italy, the United Kingdom, and the United States, submitted work for consideration. Entries were organized into categories such as the Top 20, Honorable Mentions, and Images of Distinction. This international participation underscores the widespread interest in the specialized field of photomicrography across diverse scientific communities.
7Expanding Scientific Visual Literacy
The competition encourages the public to engage with science through visual storytelling. By showcasing images like Dr. Francisco Lázaro-Diéguez’s study of a dedifferentiated liver endothelial cell, the contest bridges the gap between academic research and public appreciation. These visuals help demystify complex biological processes for a broader, non-specialist audience worldwide.
8Future of Microscopic Exploration
As technology advances, the ability to capture such precise microscopic detail continues to improve. The Nikon Small World initiative remains a vital record of these advancements, often complemented by their video-based competition. Enthusiasts are encouraged to visit the official website to view the full gallery of this year's remarkable photographic achievements.
Original article: Colossal — Nikon Small World Photomicrography Contest Reveals Microscopic Wonders