Differentiated mouse brain tumor cells (actin, microtubules, and nuclei)
1st Place, 2024 Photomicrography Competition
Bruno Cisterna & Eric Vitriol

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Nikon Small World

Celebrating 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.

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Deadline for Entries

Apr 30, 2025

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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.

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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.

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Small World News

November Nature Methods Cover Features Mouse Intestine Image by Dr. Amy Engevik

The November 2024 cover of Nature Methods features a fluorescence image of a mouse small intestine section captured by Dr. Amy Engevik of the Medical University of South Carolina, which won 4th place in this year’s Nikon Small World Photomicrography Competition.

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2025 Nikon Small World Wall Calendar Now Available for Purchase

The Nikon Small World 2025 Calendar is printed in full color on semi-gloss paper and spiral bound for mounting on the wall. Order your calendar today and we'll send you a second one at no cost!

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Masters of Microscopy

A profile of 2024 Small World Winner winner Dr. Bruno Cisterna

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Meet the Judges

Get to know the 2024 Small World and Small World in Motion judging panel.

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Small World Exhibit Tour

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MicroscopyU

Nikon's MicroscopyU website features technical support and timely information about all aspects of optical microscopy, photomicrography, and digital imaging.

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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.

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