See all of the 2025 Small World Photo Winners
Nikon Small World
Celebrating over 50 years of images captured by the light microscope.
Nikon Small World is regarded as the leading forum for showcasing the beauty and complexity of life as seen through the light microscope. The Photomicrography Competition is open to anyone with an interest in microscopy and photography. The video competition, entitled Small World In Motion encompasses any movie or digital time-lapse photography taken through the microscope.
Photomicrography Competition
The Nikon Small World Competition first began in 1975 as a means to recognize and applaud the efforts of those involved with photography through the light microscope. Since then, Small World has become a leading showcase for photomicrographers from the widest array of scientific disciplines.
Video Competition
In 2011, Nikon announced that it would begin accepting movies taken through the microscope as a new category in the 37th annual Nikon Small World Photomicrography Competition. This new category, titled Small World in Motion, encompasses any movie or digital time-lapse photography taken through the microscope and adds a new, distinct discipline to the competition.
Small World News
Nikon Small World Honors 51st Annual Photomicrography Competition
Posted on October 15, 2025
Winning image of a common agricultural pest reveals the beauty and complexity of insects often overlooked in daily life.
Featured Article
Exploring Uli Koch’s Nikon Microscope Collection
Meet Uli Koch, who is a passionate collector of Nikon microscopes and has meticulously been gathering and restoring models that span the history and evolution of the brand. Through his collection, Uli offers us a rare glimpse into the artistry, innovation and heritage of Nikon Microscopy.
Meet the Judges
Small World Exhibit Tour
California Science Center
May 1, 2023 – Jun 30, 2027ARTIS-Micropia
Mar 14, 2025 – Jan 30, 2026
MicroscopyU
Nikon's MicroscopyU website features technical support and timely information about all aspects of optical microscopy, photomicrography, and digital imaging.
Nikon Instruments
Nikon Instruments is a leader in microscope-based optical and imaging technologies for the life sciences and part of the Nikon Healthcare Business Division.
