Bee’s Eye View Wins Top Prize

First place in Nikon Instrument’s annual Small World Photomicrography Competition went to Australian Ralph Grimm for his incredible close-up image of a bee eye covered in dandelion pollen grains. Visually striking, the winning image brings to light just how little is understood about how these incredible insects see the world.

Recognition was also paid to over 77 other winners of the competition, including a ranked Top Twenty, 12 Honourable Mentions and 56 Images of Distinction. With submissions spanning 83 countries, competition was tough. Judges selected winners that displayed not only artistic quality but exceptional scientific technique.

“Each year we are blown away by the incredible quality and quantity of microscopic images submitted from all over the world, from scientists, artists, and photomicrographers of all levels and backgrounds. This year was certainly no exception,” said Eric Flem, Communications Manager, Nikon Instruments. “Judges had their work cut out for them in narrowing down from such a rich pool of applicants, and we are so pleased with the results. Each of these winning images exhibits the exemplary technique, scientific discipline and artistry for which Nikon Small World is known.”

Judges were particularly impressed by the techniques Grimm used during four hours of careful work to mount the eye, set the focus increments, properly illuminate the subject and avoid peripheral smudging during the stacking process.

The story behind the image is also touching. As a high school teacher, self-taught photomicrographer and former beekeeper, the subject matter is near and dear to Grimm’s heart. While bee colonies continue to dwindle worldwide, Grimm hopes his image can serve as a voice for this rapidly disappearing insect that plays such a critical function in pollinating the world’s crops.

 “In a way I feel as though this gives us a glimpse of the world through the eye of a bee,” said Grimm. “It’s a subject of great sculptural beauty, but also a warning- that we should stay connected to our planet, listen to the little creatures like bees, and find a way to protect the earth that we all call home.”