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Nikon Small World Honors 51st Annual Photomicrography Competition

Nikon Instruments Inc. has announced the winners of its esteemed Nikon Small World Photomicrography Competition for the 51st consecutive year, highlighting exceptional talents in the field of microscopy. This year’s first prize was awarded to Zhang You from Kunming, Yunnan, China, for his breathtaking image of a rice weevil perched on a grain of rice. This striking representation not only showcases the intricate beauty of this common agricultural pest but also underscores the importance of insects in our ecosystems.

You's momentous win can be attributed to his deep understanding of entomology and his prowess in photography. His approach blends creative artistry with scientific integrity, providing viewers with an insightful glimpse into the complex world of insects. “Understanding insect behavior and mastering lighting is key to capturing such standout work,” he emphasized.

The image effectively captures the rice weevil with its wings outstretched, emphasizing its natural size while also illustrating its ecological role as a detriment to various crops. Using a medium-format camera and a sophisticated 5x microscope objective, Zhang meticulously compiled over 100 images through focus stacking, dedicating two weeks to perfecting his specimen’s presentation. “The find was fortuitous; it was the first time I observed a rice weevil with its wings spread,” he described. “The specimen was naturally preserved on a windowsill, and preparing it for a photograph was both a challenge and an exhilarating experience.”

In addition to his first-place award, Zhang also secured 15th place in the competition with another exquisite photograph of a Geometer moth laying eggs, demonstrating his remarkable versatility and expertise. Eric Flem, a senior manager at Nikon Instruments, praised Zhang's accomplishment, noting that this was his first attempt at the competition, and winning first and earning another top-20 placement speaks to the compelling spirit of the Nikon Small World initiative.

Rounding out the top three of this year’s competition were Dr. Jan Rosenboom, who took second place for his captivating image of Volvox spheres in water, and John-Oliver Dum, who earned third place for his artful capture of pollen entangled in a garden spider's web. In total, this year’s competition featured an impressive 71 images selected from thousands of entries, showcasing the work of both emerging and established artists and scientists from around the globe.

The judging panel was comprised of renowned experts including science communicator Deboki Chakravarti and Chief Multimedia Editor at Scientific American, Jeff DelViscio, among others. With a continuous commitment to elevating scientific understanding and artistic creation, the Nikon Small World competition serves as a significant platform for enthusiasts and professionals alike, inviting everyone to explore the unseen realms of our world.

For more information on the Nikon Small World Photomicrography Competition, individuals can visit Nikon Small World. Follow their social media presence to stay updated on future competitions and artistic showcases.