#USA #Melville #Nikon Small World #Jay McClellan #thymeleaf speedwell

A Flourishing Surprise in Nature: Nikon's 15th Annual Small World in Motion Competition Winners

Nikon Instruments Inc. recently celebrated the creativity and innovation of scientists and artists alike through its 15th annual Nikon Small World in Motion Video Competition. The competition, known for highlighting the intricacies of microscopic life, has not only showcased artistic talent but has also revealed the astounding mechanisms of nature that often go unnoticed. This year's first-place winner, Jay McClellan, captivated audiences with his enlightening depiction of self-pollination in a thymeleaf speedwell flower (Veronica serpyllifolia).

The Vision Behind the Video

In McClellan's award-winning video, viewers are taken on a time-lapse journey that unveils the delicate reproductive strategies employed by plants in the absence of pollinators. “This isn’t an exotic species you need to search for; it’s a plant that you might find right in your backyard,” McClellan remarked. The video features a small blue flower unfurling as the sun rises, with its stamens gradually bending to dust the stigma with pollen, thus completing self-pollination.

McClellan, a former engineer whose passion for microscopy and imaging systems has flourished into an artistic venture, shares how he had to dive deep into preparation and execution to capture such fleeting moments. “Filming processes like this requires not just timing but also the right set of techniques,” he explains. Using a customized motion-control system and advanced focus-stacking techniques, he challenges himself to maintain clarity while staying within the frame.

The Importance of Detail

Creating a video that showcases self-pollination in real-time is no small feat. McClellan has developed specialized hardware and software to work with microscopic video, resulting in captivating visual displays of natural phenomena. “When I shoot these videos, I can end up with terabytes of raw footage; each shot is like waiting for Christmas morning, you never know if you’ll be greeted with disappointment or something truly spectacular,” he adds, emphasizing the thrill of the process.

The underlying motivation for his work goes beyond accolades. McClellan relishes the opportunity to bring intricate natural designs into public view. “The best part is sharing wonders of the microscopic world. I want everyone to see the beauty that exists if we just take the time to look closely.”

Recognizing Other Talented Creators

This year's competition also honored several other remarkable contributors to the realm of microscopic imagery. Second place was awarded to Benedikt Pleyer for his enchanting capture of volvox algae swimming in a drop of water on a Japanese 50 Yen coin, while Dr. Eric Vitriol claimed the third position with a video showcasing actin and mitochondria in mouse brain tumor cells.

In an era where science and artistry can deeply intertwine, the Nikon Small World in Motion competition encourages everyone—from amateur creators to seasoned professionals—to delve into the marvels beyond our daily perception.

Continuing the Journey

Jay McClellan is currently engaged in a new project—a nature documentary focusing on tiny creatures. Utilizing a portable version of his video rig, he aims to take the techniques he honed in controlled environments and apply them to fieldwork. This transition will enable him to capture and convey the enchanting details of wildlife in their natural habitats.

As the Nikon Small World in Motion competition reaches its 15th anniversary, it continues to inspire awe and discovery among viewers while celebrating the artistry involved in scientific exploration. According to Eric Flem, Senior Manager of Communications at Nikon Instruments, “The winners' videos this year reflect the extraordinary choreography of life at scales that are often overlooked. Their work not only showcases beauty but also fuels the curiosity that drives scientific inquiry and appreciation for our natural world.”

For more details on the Nikon Small World competition and to explore this year's winning entries, visit www.nikonsmallworld.com. Follow their journey on social media via Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook for continuous updates and insights into the microscopic wonders waiting to be discovered.