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