Key facts
- Ole Bielfeldt won the 2026 Nikon Small World competition.
- His winning image depicted ink droplets being deposited on paper by an inkjet printer.
- Bielfeldt used a flash as a shutter to capture the fast-moving ink drops.
German photographer wins Nikon Small World contest with inkjet printer image
IN SHORT
Ole Bielfeldt, a 25-year-old German photographer, won the 2026 Nikon Small World competition for his image of ink droplets being deposited on paper by an inkjet printer. He used a flash as a shutter to freeze the fast-moving ink drops.
Key Numbers
2026Nikon Small World competition year
1,802entries received
69countries represented in entries
25age of the winner
Who's Involved
Ole Bielfeldt
German experimental photographer who won the 2026 Nikon Small World competition
Nikon Small World
photomicrography competition
Eric Flem
spokesperson for Nikon Instruments
↳ Why This Matters
The Nikon Small World competition showcases the intersection of microscopy, ingenuity, and artistry, transforming everyday objects into unseen visual experiences and highlighting the creative potential of scientific tools.