Applications are now open for the Nikon Small World Competition 2026, an internationally recognized photography competition organized by Nikon Instruments Inc.. This annual competition invites participants from around the world to submit outstanding photomicrographs—photographs taken through a light microscope—for a chance to win prizes of up to $3,000.
Open to both professionals and hobbyists interested in microscopy photography, the competition celebrates the beauty and scientific value of images captured under the microscope. Winners receive cash prizes, international recognition, and the opportunity to have their work displayed in museums and science centers across the United States and Canada.
Competition Overview
- Organizer: Nikon Instruments Inc.
- Competition Type: International Photography Competition
- Categories: Still Images and Videos
- Eligible Nationality: All nationalities
- Submission Mode: Online
- Prize Value: Up to $3,000
- Application Deadline: 30 April 2026
About the Nikon Small World Competition
The Nikon Small World Competition was established in 1975 to recognize excellence in photomicrography, the art of capturing images through a microscope. Over the years, it has become one of the most respected competitions for those working in microscopy, science imaging, and visual arts.
The competition welcomes entries using a variety of light microscopy techniques, including:
- phase contrast
- polarized light
- fluorescence
- interference contrast
- dark field
- confocal microscopy
- deconvolution
- mixed light microscopy methods
In addition to still images, the Small World In Motion category accepts digital videos and time-lapse microscopy footage, allowing participants to showcase dynamic microscopic processes.
Financial Benefits
The Nikon Small World Competition offers attractive prizes in both the still image and video categories.
Still Image Awards
- 1st Prize: $3,000
- 2nd Prize: $2,000
- 3rd Prize: $1,000
- 4th Prize: $800
- 5th Prize: $600
- 6th Prize: $500
- 7th to 10th Prize: $400 each
- 11th to 20th Prize: $300 each
- Honorable Mentions: $200 each
- Images of Distinction: Nikon gift card worth $35
Video Awards
- 1st Prize: $3,000
- 2nd Prize: $2,000
- 3rd Prize: $1,000
- 4th Prize: $800
- 5th Prize: $600
- Honorable Mentions: $200 each
Apart from financial rewards, selected works gain global visibility through exhibitions and publications.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Nikon Small World Competition 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- applicants must be 18 years or older
- entries are open to all nationalities
- participants must not be employees or agents of Nikon Instruments Inc.
- entrants must not be affiliated with competing microscope or camera manufacturers
- submissions must be created using a light microscope
- AI-generated images or videos are not allowed
- macro photography is not accepted
- submissions must not have won previous photomicrography awards
- all application information must be submitted in English
- each entrant may submit up to 3 images and 3 videos
Entries must also comply with the competition’s technical and ethical requirements.
Required Documents
To complete the application, participants must submit:
- registration information
- passport-size photograph
- up to 3 still images
- up to 3 videos
Accepted image file formats include:
- JPEG
- PNG
- PSD
- TIFF
All files should be submitted in high quality.
Application Process
Applicants must complete the online competition entry form and provide the required personal and technical details.
The application steps are:
- Complete the online registration form
-
Enter your:
- full name
- phone number
- email address
- home address
- country
- Provide your school, institution, or organization details
- Mention the type and model of microscope/camera equipment used
- Describe each submitted image or video
- Upload up to three images or videos
- Confirm acceptance of the official competition rules
- Submit the completed application online
Applicants are encouraged to submit original, technically strong, and visually compelling microscopic images.
Why You Should Apply
The Nikon Small World Competition 2026 is an excellent opportunity for scientists, researchers, students, and microscopy enthusiasts to gain international recognition for their work.
Benefits of participating include:
- winning cash prizes up to $3,000
- gaining worldwide exposure
- showcasing work in museums and exhibitions
- enhancing professional recognition
- joining a prestigious scientific imaging competition
Whether you are a scientist or an artist, this competition offers a unique platform to display the hidden beauty of the microscopic world.
Final Thoughts
The Nikon Small World Competition 2026 is one of the most prestigious global contests in scientific imaging. With generous prizes, international recognition, and opportunities for exhibition, it provides an incredible platform for photographers and researchers passionate about microscopy.
If you have fascinating microscopic images or videos, this is your chance to share them with the world and earn recognition for your creativity and scientific skill.
Official Call: https://enter.nikonsmallworld.com/
