So, I moved out of Brussels this summer (yes, that’s the one in Belgium, not Illinois!), and as I reflect on my time there, I’m sharing my experience of making a documentary. But this isn’t just about me – it’s about how this process can inspire your own creative projects. Whether you’re into photography, filmmaking, or just looking for fresh ideas, there’s something for everyone here.

After living there for three years, you’d think I’d have my feelings sorted out by now, right? But the truth is, I’m still on the fence about how I feel about the city. There’s a lot to love, but there’s also a side that’s hard to forget.

Let’s start with the good stuff

Brussels is like a movie set. Seriously! The architecture is stunning, with all those old buildings that make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. It’s got a vibe that feels both grand and cozy. And there’s always something to see, whether it’s a quirky little café, an art gallery, or a historic site you just stumble upon.

But, like any city, Brussels has its not-so-glamorous side. It can be dirty, unfriendly, and even a little terrifying, especially if you’re a woman walking alone at night. There were times I felt uneasy, and let’s just say, some things are better left unremembered.

A Walk Through the City

I spent so much time walking through the streets of Brussels, hopping on public transport, and even driving around. It gave me a front-row seat to the everyday life of the city. I’ve seen both the beauty and the grit of Brussels up close. It’s like the city has two faces – one that’s vibrant and full of life, and another that feels a bit cold and distant.

But despite the ups and downs, Brussels left its mark on me. And that’s where the idea for my documentary came from. I wanted to capture not just the postcard-perfect parts of the city, but the real Brussels – the good, the bad, and the in-between.

The Making of the Documentary

In early spring, I decided to take a documentary course. I figured, why not use my time in Brussels to create something meaningful? I’ve always been fascinated by black-and-white photography and video, so I thought, why not make my documentary in black and white? It felt like the perfect way to show the contrasts of the city – both literally and figuratively.

The documentary captures moments of Brussels that I’ll never forget. From the rainy days that seemed to last forever to the crowded Grand Place and hidden streets. Each scene tells a story, a piece of the city that I got to know so well. I wanted to share my perspective and, hopefully, help others see Brussels through my eyes.

The result? A short film that’s both a farewell and a tribute to the city I called home for three years. It’s personal, raw, and a little melancholic – just like my relationship with Brussels.

Let’s find how it could spark some ideas for your own

Capture Genuine Moments: My documentary focuses on capturing the real essence of Brussels, showing both its beauty and its flaws. It’s not just about picture-perfect scenes or tourist hot spots. By embracing the everyday, unpolished side of the city, I was able to create something authentic. This approach can inspire you to do the same. Look beyond the obvious and capture the raw, unscripted moments in your own projects. Sometimes, the most powerful stories come from what’s hidden in plain sight.

Play with Contrast in Your Story: Since my documentary is shot in black and white, contrast plays a huge role in telling the story. But it’s not just about light and shadows – contrast can be about opposites in theme, mood, or even characters. By playing with contrast, whether visually or emotionally, you can create depth and intrigue in your own work. Think about how you can use contrasting elements to highlight the tension, beauty, or complexity of your subject.

Turn Ordinary Life into Art: Many of the scenes in my documentary came from everyday experiences. I drew inspiration from walking through the city, taking public transport, or just observing life around me. Even the tough moments turned into creative fuel. If you’ve ever felt like your daily routine is too ordinary to be artistic, think again. Sometimes, it’s the smallest, most overlooked details that hold the most creative potential. Use your surroundings as inspiration, and don’t be afraid to transform your everyday life into art.

Watch the Documentary

I hope you enjoy watching the documentary as much as I enjoyed making it. It’s not just a video; it’s a reflection of my time in Brussels and everything I’ve experienced there. It’s full of memories, both beautiful and challenging, but all of them have shaped my view of the city.

If you’ve ever been to Brussels, maybe you’ll recognize some of the places I filmed. Or maybe it’ll inspire you to visit and see the city for yourself.

Explore More at Graphics-Illustrations.com

But before I sign off, don’t forget to explore more unique content here on graphics-illustrations.com! We’ve got plenty of cool designs, especially if you love creative illustrations and digital art. Make sure to check out the Premium Content section for exclusive designs that you won’t find anywhere else.

And if you’re into digital designs for your own projects, be sure to visit my FiveCatsGraphic Shop on Etsy. It’s full of fun, quirky illustrations that are perfect for adding a bit of personality to your work.

Finally, if you’re looking for designer clothing, shoes, and accessories that scream creativity (and cats!), stop by my CatPrints by BSilvia Shop. It’s purr-fect for anyone who loves fashion with a feline twist.

Thanks for reading, and I’ll catch you in the next post! Until then, keep creating, exploring, and – most importantly – having fun with it all!