Over the past three decades, non-linear imaging techniques have emerged as remarkable imaging methods, pushing the boundaries of optical microscopy. Here, we showcase the capabilities of the short-wave infrared microscope (SWIM), which takes use of novel laser sources in the short-wave infrared region and was developed for the EU-funded FAIRCHARM (fast infrared coherent harmonic microscopy) project. To do so, we employed simultaneous detection in both forward and backward directions of fluorescent and harmonic signals at high spatial resolution, using 1300 and 1650 nm excitation wavelengths from various samples, including zebrafish larvae, zebrafish scales, porcine cardiac tissues and daphnia. Particular focus was given to imaging zebrafish scales, as we collaborate with researchers studying vertebrate bone regeneration. Together, we developed a method to precisely assess collagen fibres and their relationships with osteoblasts and the mineralized bone layer. Additionally, we began investigating Erk activity, mechanical cues in cells and their connections to collagen fibres.