Small World microscopy contest

The winner of Nikon's Small World microscopy photography competition is facing criticism after questions were raised about whether artificial intelligence was used to produce the winning image. Detractors argue AI assistance undermines the contest's purpose of showcasing genuine microscope photography, while supporters say the rules on AI tools remain unclear. The debate has reignited a wider argument about how photography competitions should handle AI-generated or AI-enhanced entries and whether existing rules need urgent updating.