Video: An astonishing microscope view of plankton in motion reveals the beauty of the overlooked creature: Digital Photography Review

Dutch filmmaker and photographer Jan van Ijken combines his passion for art and science in his photography and videography. He recently created a short film, Planktonium, introducing the ‘unseen world of microscopic plankton.’

The short film is a detailed view of plankton through a microscope. The film is presented without a voiceover, including the sound of the Norwegian artist Jana Winderen. Of Winderen’s acoustic work, van Ijken says, ‘She’s recording acoustic environments and creatures that are difficult for humans to access, both physically and acoustically – deep underwater, inside ice or in frequency range that the human ear cannot hear.’

Phytoplankton is an underappreciated organism. They produce half of the oxygen on Earth through photosynthesis. Zooplankton is an important part of the food chain in the oceans. Plankton also has an important role in the global carbon cycle. Tiny organisms have far more far-reaching effects than their microscopic size.

In his Statement of the DirectorJan van Ijken writes, ‘What I find most interesting is that plankton is abundant in all the seas around us. However, almost no one is aware of the presence of countless creatures, their amazing beauty and the important role they play in the ecosystem. They can only be seen through a microscope. Some organisms have existed on Earth for millions of years, sometimes in unchanged form. Ever since I discovered plankton, I’ve become addicted to it. Every time I go out with my plankton net, I’m curious about what I’ll find, and I’m always amazed with my findings. Each sea, ditch and lake has its own biological trends and also has large seasonal variations. ‘

Image credit: Jan van Ikjen

This is not Jan van Ikjen’s first foray into using the microscope for the visual arts. In addition to numerous other short films and a trilogy of photography books, van Ijken also has twice earned recognition in the prestigious Nikon small world microphotography competition, including ninth place for a Photo of an embryo-bearing water flea and peritrichs.

The video above is just a short version of Planktonium. You can rent and buy the full 4K version. For more detailed information, click here.