23rd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Artistic
Verdant Jewel
This macro photograph captures the mesmerizing Tmesorrhina sp., a jewel-like beetle whose metallic green armor gleams like polished gemstone. Up close, the intricate textures of its exoskeleton reveal a sculptural symmetry that feels almost mechanical — a living engine designed by nature. Every groove, reflection, and iridescent shimmer evokes a sense of precision and mystery, as if the beetle itself were a tiny creature from a futuristic world. The deep focus and luminous light emphasize both the elegance and resilience of this small being, inviting the viewer to see beyond its size and into the complexity of its design.
Photo Detail
| Date Taken: | 01.2025 |
| Date Uploaded: | 11.2025 |
| Photo Location: | United Kingdom |
| Camera: | ILCE-7RM4 |
| Copyright: | © Irina Petrova Adamatzky |