Microscopic photography is an incredible way to see the world in a new light. Nikon’s Small World photo contest showcases stunning images that capture the beauty and complexity of the microscopic world. From brain tumor cells to pollen on insect eyes, these images offer a unique perspective on the world around us.
One of this year’s winning photos is a shot of brain tumor cells in mice, taken by research scientists Bruno Cisterna and Eric Vitriol. This image is part of a study that explores how neurons respond to deficiencies in their actin cytoskeletons, which could be linked to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and ALS. The green color in the image represents microtubules, white represents the actin cytoskeleton, and magenta represents the nucleus.
The contest received over 2,100 entries from around the world, with 87 photos being recognized for their originality, technique, and impact. Some of the standout images include the vibrant colors of an electrical arc between a pin and a wire, the intricate patterns of a cannabis plant leaf, and the detailed cross-section of a European beach grass.
Other captivating images include the eyes of a green crab spider, the dorsal part of a cuckoo wasp’s abdomen, the spores of a black truffle, and the opening stages of a hibiscus flower. Each image offers a glimpse into a world that is often hidden from the naked eye.
These microscopic marvels remind us of the beauty and complexity of the natural world. From the delicate threads of a garden spider’s web to the psychedelic colors of a mosquito larva under polarized light, each image tells a unique story. Whether it’s the intricate details of a peacock feather or the densely covered dendritic spines of a neuron, these images capture the wonder of the microscopic world.
As we continue to explore the mysteries of the natural world, microscopic photography provides a window into a world that is both fascinating and beautiful. The Nikon Small World contest celebrates the intersection of science and art, showcasing the incredible beauty that exists beyond what we can see with the naked eye.