Nikon Small World Competition 2025: Apply Now

The Nikon Small World Competition 2025 is now open for entries. This globally recognized contest celebrates the intersection of science and art through the lens of a light microscope. If you capture still images or motion clips using light microscopy, this is your chance to gain international recognition and win valuable cash prizes.

About the Nikon Small World Competition

Launched in 1975, the Nikon Small World Competition has grown into one of the most prestigious platforms showcasing the beauty and complexity of life under the microscope. It invites scientists, researchers, educators, and imaging professionals to share their best microscopic work with the world.

Participants can submit either photomicrographs (still images) or motion videos (short films or time-lapse clips) captured using a light microscope.

Competition Categories

There are two main categories in the Nikon Small World Competition:

1. Photomicrography (Still Images)

This category focuses on single-frame images taken through a light microscope. Images can showcase a wide range of subjects from cells and microorganisms to minerals and microtechnology.

2. Small World in Motion (Videos)

This category highlights dynamic visual content like time-lapse sequences and video footage captured through a light microscope. The goal is to bring scientific motion to life with clarity and creativity.

Nikon Small World 2025 Prizes

The competition offers a generous prize pool for both still images and motion video entries.

Photomicrography Awards

1st Place: $3,000
2nd Place: $2,000
3rd Place: $1,000
4th Place: $800
5th Place: $600
6th Place: $500
7th–10th Places: $400 each
11th–20th Places: $300 each
Honorable Mentions: $200 each

Motion Video Awards

1st Place: $3,000
2nd Place: $2,000
3rd Place: $1,000
4th Place: $800
5th Place: $600
Honorable Mentions: $200 each

Entry Guidelines for the Nikon Small World Competition

All participants must carefully follow the technical and content rules for their submissions. Each entrant may submit up to three entries per category.

Still Image Submission Guidelines

File formats accepted: .jpeg, .png, .psd, or .tiff
Submit high-resolution images only
All images must be captured using a light microscope (electron and macro photography are not allowed)
Use of Nikon equipment is not mandatory
AI-generated images are strictly prohibited
Images must be original and not previously awarded in any other contest
Do not include watermarks, personal information, web links, or logos
Entries must be submitted in English

Motion Video Submission Guidelines

Accepted formats: .mp4, .mpg, .wmv, .avi, or .mov
Video duration must not exceed 60 seconds
No soundtracks, added graphics, or digital effects allowed
Videos must be shot using a light microscope
AI-generated videos are not accepted
Must follow the same content rules as still images

Submission Deadline

The final date to submit your entries for the Nikon Small World Competition 2025 is April 30, 2025. Late entries will not be considered, so make sure to complete your registration and uploads well in advance.

How to Submit Your Entry

To participate in the Nikon Small World Competition 2025:

Visit the official entry portal.
Register your details
Upload your images or videos according to the provided guidelines

For detailed instructions, rules, and updates, refer to the official Nikon Small World Competition website.

Final Tips for Entrants

Before submitting:

Review all technical specifications
Double-check that your work is original and meets eligibility criteria
Ensure your content aligns with scientific and artistic integrity
Submit in the correct file format and within the deadline

Conclusion

The Nikon Small World Competition 2025 is more than just a contest—it's a global stage that celebrates the fusion of scientific discovery and artistic expression. Whether you're a seasoned researcher, a passionate microscopist, or a curious student exploring the microscopic world, this is your opportunity to gain international recognition and share your work with a worldwide audience.

With valuable cash prizes, exposure through Nikon’s platforms, and a chance to be featured among the most stunning microscopic visuals of the year, there’s every reason to participate. Remember to follow the guidelines, submit your original work before the April 30, 2025 deadline, and let your lens capture the unseen beauty of science.

Start preparing your entry today, and bring the world closer to the wonders hidden in the smallest details.