St. Joseph Vaz College, Cortalim, through the Department of Microbiology, organized the Monsoon Photography Competition in association with the Microbiologists Society of India (MBSI), Goa Chapter, with the theme “Capture the Hidden Life This Monsoon!” The competition aimed to encourage students to observe and document the fascinating microbial life and biodiversity that becomes visible during the monsoon season.

The competition provided participants with an opportunity to capture original photographs depicting microorganisms, fungi, and other forms of hidden microbial life found in their natural surroundings. The activity encouraged students to explore the connection between microbiology, nature, photography, and scientific communication. Participants were required to submit original photographs taken during the current monsoon season. The competition was open to photographs captured using DSLRs, mirrorless cameras, point-and-shoot cameras, and smartphones. Participants were also encouraged to follow ethical photography practices by avoiding disturbance to the environment, uprooting fungi, damaging moss beds, or introducing artificial elements
into the photographs.

The entries were evaluated out of 100 marks based on four criteria: Scientific and Thematic Relevance (30%), Technical Excellence (30%), Composition and Creativity (20%), and Visual Impact/Aesthetic Appeal (20%). Participants were also required to provide a brief scientific caption describing where the specimen was found and what it depicted.

The three prize winners of the competition were:
1. First Prize – Gretchen Fernandes
2. Second Prize – Abhishek Chaudhary
3. Third Prize – Avinash Shrivastav

The winning photographs stood out for their effective combination of scientific relevance, photographic quality, creativity, and aesthetic appeal, successfully portraying the hidden microbial world associated with the monsoon.

The Monsoon Photography Competition was an enriching experiential learning activity that encouraged students to look beyond the visible world and appreciate the important role of microorganisms in nature. The initiative successfully combined microbiology and
creative expression, while promoting scientific curiosity, environmental sensitivity, and effective science communication among students.