Most likely, you have never seen an ant as close-up before. Eugenijus KavaliauskasI snapped this shot of an ant’s head that looks like it was from a fantasy epic. The Lord of the Rings.
The image has been honored as an “Award of Merit”Image of Distinction‘ In the 2022 Small World Photomicrography CompetitionNikon is the one behind this snap, and it’s not hard to see why. The snap has also received a lot of attention over on Reddit.
The image shows close-ups of the antennae as well as the mandibles. Camponotus – a common carpenter ant. They nest in wood, mainly in forests, and enjoy honeydew, nectar, dead insects and nectar released by aphids.
This image shows some clever cropping. According to the Washington PostIt is the base of the antennae that give the appearance of glowing red eyes to ants. The yellow teeth that appear to be ant teeth are tiny trigger hairs that ants use in order to sense their environment.
This photo was taken at 5x magnification using a microscope. A reflected light technique was used to bring out the details in the face of the ant.
Kavaliauskas said the following: Washington PostAfter trying his hand at photographing birds-of-prey, he now focuses on insects. There are many other amazing examples of his talent, eye for detail. His Instagram page.
Kavaliauskas stated, “I am always looking for details and shadows, as well as unseen corners,” Insider.
“The main purpose of photography is to find the beauty in people. I’m fascinated by the Creators works and have the chance to see God’s creations.
Another 56 photos were also designated Images of Distinction, by the judges. Take a look at – we’ve got macro images of mouse embryos, butterfly scales, dinosaurbones, and much more
Overall winnerOne of the contestants showed the embryonic hand (or rather, the hand) of a Madagascar giant-sized day gecko.Phelsuma grandis), captured by Grigorii Timin and Michel Milinkovitch from the University of Geneva in Switzerland.
“Every year, Nikon Small World receives a variety of microscopic photographs that demonstrate exemplary scientific technique as well as artistry.” Eric FlemNikon Instruments, Communications and CRM Manager
“This year was no exception.”
If you think you can get a shot as good as this one – or you would at least like to try – then you can already start entering submissions for the 2023 Small World competition.
