#USA #Melville #Nikon #microscopy #Ole Bielfeldt

Nikon Small World Competition 2026

The recent winners of the 52nd annual Nikon Small World photomicrography competition were unveiled, with a stunning entry by Ole Bielfeldt, a student and experimental photographer from Cologne, Germany. Bielfeldt’s photograph, showcasing the intricate process of ink droplets moving inside an inkjet printer, was awarded first prize.

Using a self-built imaging rig and a microscope objective, Bielfeldt captured the droplets in their natural flow as they adhered to a sheet of glossy paper. The motivation behind this artwork stemmed from Bielfeldt's curious nature and desire to understand the mechanics behind everyday printing processes. His work presents a captivating glimpse into what typically goes unnoticed in our daily lives—the precise, albeit rapid, mechanics behind that which transpires as ink is transferred from printer to paper.

In his own words, Bielfeldt says, “I think it was super interesting because I didn’t know how it really worked. It’s like it was magic, and I didn’t understand it, but now I do.” This transformation of an ordinary object into an extraordinary spectacle through the art of microscopy highlights the creative potential within scientific tools.

Crafting the Perfect Shot

To achieve this remarkable shot, Bielfeldt encountered several hurdles. His initial attempts to capture the fast-moving droplets resulted in failed images due to limitations in focus and shutter speed. Instead of relying on pricey professional gear, he ingeniously reverse-engineered the printer’s setup. By securing the printhead and allowing the paper to move beneath it, he was able to stabilize the shot. In conjunction with flashes to freeze the motion, he successfully captured the dynamic movement of the ink droplets in exquisite detail.

Bielfeldt's exploration into the world of photography began during the COVID-19 lockdown, inspired by an old microscope he found in his parents' attic. Constructing his own devices and learning through online resources, he has documented his experimental adventures through behind-the-scenes videos, allowing viewers to see the problem-solving process that leads up to each striking image.

The Allure of Microscopy

For Bielfeldt, the challenge and unpredictability of working with real subjects are part of what makes microscopy so appealing. Rejecting artificial intelligence-generated images, he embraces traditional techniques like focus stacking and retouching to manifest an impactful photo from tangible subjects. His journey illustrates that science can not only be a pursuit of knowledge but also a canvas for artistic expression.

The Nikon Small World competition also recognized outstanding work from other talented photographers. Second place was awarded to John-Oliver Dum for his stunning capture of a jumping spider with pollen, while third place went to Kaelin Wulf and Rachel Flannery for their compelling image of neurons in a mouse brain.

A Celebration of Innovation

Nikon Instruments emphasizes the spirit of creativity embedded in the competition, with Senior Manager Eric Flem stating, “Ole Bielfeldt’s winning image embodies what makes Nikon Small World so powerful—the intersection of microscope imaging, ingenuity, and artistry.” The competition is a reminder that the microscope serves as a vital tool not just for scientific endeavors but also for creative exploration, enhancing our understanding and appreciation of the world around us.

For more details and to see all of this year’s winners and outstanding entries, visit Nikon Small World.