A system and method for detecting dynamic changes that occur in a sample between a first time interval and a second time interval using a series of at least first and second sequential chemical images of the sample. During the first time interval: (i) the sample is illuminated with a plurality of photons to thereby produce photons scattered or emitted by the sample; (ii) a two-dimensional array of detection elements is used to simultaneously detect scattered or emitted photons in a first predetermined wavelength band from different locations on or within the sample; and (iii) the two-dimensional array of detection elements is thereafter used one or more further times to simultaneously detect scattered or emitted photons in one or more further predetermined wavelength band(s) from different locations on or within the sample. The outputs of the two-dimensional array of detection elements during the first time interval are then combined to generate the first chemical image of the sample. The process is repeated during the second time interval to generate the second chemical image of the sample. Dynamic changes occurring in the sample between the first time interval and the second time interval are detected based on one or more differences between the first and second chemical images.