Each year Nikon Small World recognizes the excellence of photography taken under the microscope.  The contest showcases the beauty and complexity of life. Anyone interested in microscopy and photography can enter the contest and in its 42nd year, Nikon Small World received 2,000 entries from 70 countries.

This year, Nikon Small World encouraged the public to vote right along with the official judges. The submissions were evaluated on originality, informational content, technical proficiency and visual impact. Oscar Ruiz won the first place for his microscopic view of the facial development of a four-day-old zebrafish embryo. Douglas Moore was awarded the second place for his image of a polished slab of Teepee Canyon Agate and Rebecca Nutbrown won the third place for her image of neurons derived from human skin cells.

“Every year we’re looking for that image that makes people lean forward in their seats, sparks their curiosity and leads them to ask new questions,” said Eric Flem, communications manager, Nikon Instruments. “Nearly 100 years of microscopy has paved the way for the evolving technology and innovative techniques that continue to raise the bar of this competition. Congratulations to all of the winners and entrants for their incredible work.” See more finalists and learn more about the competition here.