Photography in the aftermath of terror in Brussels
Totems of Peace
A visual story photographed one day before the flowers were destroyed.
Brussels, Belgium - On the morning of March 22nd, 2016, Brussels was hit with the deadliest act of terrorism in its history. Three bombs, two at the airport and one in the metro station, killed 32 civilians and left hundreds injured.
Documenting the aftermath of the bombs was powerful and tragic, but it didn’t capture the resiliency of the city’s people. What did were the items left in the city center, to remember the attacks. Letters and other totems were archived by the city after two months. The totems photographed here were to be destroyed the next day, so I photographed them just before on a black cloth I took.
This way these totems keep reminding us of these terrible months in 2016.
Visual storytelling using still photography
Photography offers a unique canvas for storytelling, allowing narratives to unfold through a single frame or a series of images. By incorporating elements like juxtaposition, where contrasting elements are placed side by side, photographers can highlight social themes or personal stories, evoking deeper emotional connections. Utilizing unconventional angles or perspectives can also serve to alter viewers' perceptions and invite them into the subject’s world, prompting questions and fostering engagement. Additionally, the integration of mixed media—combining photographs with text, found objects, or digital effects—can create a rich tapestry of meaning that challenges traditional forms of storytelling, making the viewer an active participant in the narrative experience. This multifaceted approach encourages exploration and interpretation, underscoring the profound storytelling power of visual imagery.