Analogue
(Diegem Cemetery)
Analogue Photo walk at Dieweg Cemetery
Sunday, 12 November, at 9h30
Meeting point: Dieweg 95, 1180 Uccle (50.7957, 4.3468)
Registration is open to all paid-up members and their partner / guest. Please sign up using the form here before Nov 10th.
Contact on the day: Karina Robin, +32 473 41 28 74
Are you ready to step back in time and capture the enchanting atmosphere of the Dieweg Cemetery in a truly unique way? Join us for a photowalk where we'll explore this historical cemetery with analogue cameras. As we wander through the maze of paths along ivy-clad tombs you'll have the opportunity to capture the hidden stories of this remarkable place on film. Whether you're an experienced analogue photographer or a beginner eager to try something new, this photowalk promises to be an inspiring journey into the past.
The Dieweg Cemetery has a captivating history that began in the aftermath of a devastating cholera epidemic that swept through Belgium in 1866. As the population surged and other burial grounds closed their gates, Dieweg found itself overwhelmed, eventually falling into abandonment in 1958.
Fast forward to the 1980s, and this once-hallowed ground had transformed into an enchanting, albeit eerie, relic of the past. Maintenance had dwindled to the pathways, leaving the graves' care in the hands of families. Over time, nature staged a quiet coup, draping ivy and weeds over many of the tombs. An otherworldly atmosphere that makes the Dieweg Cemetery one of Brussels' most peculiar and alluring spots.
As you wander through this forlorn necropolis, more than 200 different plant species can be found, overgrowing the dilapidated tombstones, chapels, mausoleums, and rusty Jesuses. Wealthy politicians, architects, bankers, members of the nobility, and Jewish families built their final mansions here, adhering to architectural styles that were fashionable at the time. Nowadays, branches embrace these magnificent funerary art pieces, as if to preserve the beauty of this place from falling apart.
While the cemetery may no longer serve its original purpose, it does hold some important gems: for instance, the final resting place of the legendary cartoonist Hergé, creator of "The Adventures of Tintin.", or architect Paul Hankar.
In recent times, efforts have been made to preserve certain significant gravestones. After all, Dieweg is a treasure trove of architectural styles and funerary art, spanning from the late 19th century to the 1950s, waiting to be discovered by those who seek its haunting beauty.
Getting there:
By car: free car parking on the street
By tram: 2-min walk from tram stop Dieweg (tram 92, 97)
By bus: 5-walk from bus stop Eikenbos (bus 60)
By train: it’s a 15-minute walk from Uccle-Calevoet train station
Technical Tips
Shooting with an analogue camera, also known as a film camera, can be a fun and rewarding experience. And don't be discouraged by mistakes; they are part of the learning process.
Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
1. Choose the right camera:
If you're new to analogue photography and want an affordable and hassle-free start, consider using a disposable point-and-shoot camera. They are budget-friendly, easy to use, and come preloaded with film, making them a convenient option for beginners. You won't need to worry about additional gear or the complexities of film loading, making it a straightforward entry into analogue photography. Although they have some limitations, they definitely can get you started!
2. Get the right film:
Analogue cameras use film, and there are various types available, including colour and black-and-white. For beginners, you can start with 35mm film, which is widely available and easy to use. You'll also need to choose a film speed or ISO, (e.g., 400 ISO is a good starting point). For some recommendations pls see the list below.
3. Load the film:
Follow the instructions provided with your camera to load the film properly.
4. Advance the film after each shot:
After taking a shot, you need to advance the film to the next frame. Follow your camera's instructions to do this, typically by winding the film advance lever or pressing a button.
5. Finish the roll:
Continue taking photos until you've reached the end of the roll. Most 35mm rolls have 24 or 36 exposures.
6. Unload the film:
Once you've used up all the exposures, follow your camera's instructions to rewind the film back into the canister. Be careful to do this in a dark or dimly lit room to avoid exposing the film to light prematurely.
7. Develop your film:
Take your exposed film to a professional photo lab (see list below) or use a film development kit to develop your images. You can also explore home development if you're feeling adventurous. (more info see below)
Here are some recommendations for films:
Colour film:
1. Kodak Colourplus
A staple in every film lover’s arsenal! Kodak Colourplus produces beautiful warm tones and mid saturation in every photo. Its affordability and versatility make it a great film to use every day.
2. Fuji Superia X-tra 400
This cool-toned film is great for landscape photography. Being ISO400, this film is versatile as you can use it for both day and night photography. It is also easy to use for beginners and you can expect beautiful photos to turn out every time.
3. Fujicolour C200
If you would like to go on a photo-walk on a sunny day out, this is the film for you! Fujicolour C200 is a cool-toned film that has a wide exposure latitude which means that you can take photos under the bright sun without overexposing your shots.
4. Kodak Ultramax 400
In love with the vintage aesthetic? If you are, you definitely have to try this film out. Kodak Ultramax has a strong yellow tinge, creating the perfect vintage look for your photos. It is also a versatile film for both indoor and outdoor shots.
5. Kodak Proimage 100
Kodak Proimage 100 is a budget-friendly film that is a must for any beginner to try. It is more suited for outdoor photos than indoor shots, and it works beautifully for portraits as well.
6. Kodak Portra
Famous for producing beautiful portraits, give this film a try if you love to feature people in your photos. It is also a great film for capturing the golden hour! It is also suitable for indoor and night shots as well. Kodak Portra comes in various ISO, such as ISO160, ISO 400, and ISO 800. Choose one that best fits your photography style!
7. Kodak Gold
A beautiful warm-toned film that is perfect for everyday photography. It is very easy to get this film. It is relatively cheap as well, which makes it a great film to use freely without worrying too much about the cost!
Black and white film:
8. Kentmere 400
It offers an excellent dynamic range and a consistent aesthetic, making it beneficial for those learning the nuances of black and white photography.
9. Ilford Delta 100
A fan of taking landscape photos? Then, Ilford Delta 100 is the film for you. This film can produce beautiful landscapes and even macro shots with its fine grain and high contrast.
10. Kodak Tmax 400
With its smooth grain and medium contrast, this is one of the best black and white film for portraits. It has a ‘smoothening’ effect on skin tones so that your subjects will turn out beautiful in your photos.
11. Ilford HP5 X
It is a very versatile film with medium contrast. This film allows you to push to ISO1600 with no loss in quality! It also allows for night shooting without a tripod.
There are several film labs in Brussels where you can have your film(s) developed after the walk, or you can of course do it yourself. I personally have used Studio Baxton up to now and was always happy with the results.
https://www.labolinea.com/argentic
https://fr.morifilmlab.com/pages/info-and-pricing
https://morifilmlab.com/
