Small World Speaks
Welcome to Small World Speaks, where we share stories behind some of the winning images and the storied history of the Nikon Small World competitions. This community includes former employees, winners, judges, and members of the Nikon Small World art, media, and science communities.
Since the competition began over 50 years ago, these stories showcase the evolution and impact of imaging technologies, scientific breakthroughs, and the stories behind each winning image and video. Small World Speaks highlights the technical and artistic efforts involved in each creation.
These contributors include scientists, artists, researchers, educators, and curious individuals exploring the microscopic world around us. They come from around the globe and represent the most distinguished honorees and influencers of Nikon Small World and Small World in Motion. Each post offers a glimpse into their perspective on microscopy, their process of creating photomicrographs, and what inspired them to join a competition that makes science visually accessible to both experts and non-experts.
Enjoy learning their part of the Nikon Small World story.
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Dylan Burnette
Neuronal Growth Cones
In this Small World Speaks episode, Dylan T. Burnette, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Cell and Developmental Biology at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine and a repeat Nikon Small World and Nikon Small World In Motion winner, shares the story behind his 2004 honorable mention-winning image of a neuronal growth cone.
Dylan Burnette
Differential Interference Contrast
In this Small World Speaks episode, Dylan T. Burnette, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Cell and Developmental Biology at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine and a repeat Nikon Small World and Nikon Small World In Motion winner, shares the story behind his 2022 4th place winning video of dying melanoma cells.
Jay McClellan
So Much Amazing Detail All Around US
In this Small World Speaks episode, first-place 2025 Small World in Motion winner Jay McClellan shares insights behind his winning video of self-pollination in the flower of thyme leaf speedwell (Veronica serpyllifolia).
Barbara Loechner
Looking back on Nikon Small World
In this Small World Speaks episode, Barbara Loechner, former Nikon Communications Manager (1977–2000), discusses the competition’s inception and how it has grown into what it is today.
