Thank You Richard Drew

Richard Drew (2001) The Falling Man

Richard Drew is a photographer for the Associated Press. On the 11th September 2001, it was the first day of fashion week and he was working in a studio. He was told about the world Trade Centre attacks by a colleague at the shoot and was then called by the office and told to abandon the shoot and head to the scene. He made his way toward West Street and when he got there he began taking pictures of the fire taking hold and the first scenes of devastation. Then a woman standing near to him said 'Look, look at those people'. Frightened for their lives and with no means of escape people made the no win decision of jumping from the windows of the building.

   That single image sparked a debate all over America and the world. Questions were being asked about why anyone would want to capture such a harrowing image, and who the man was. The debate spread and resulted in a documentary being made some years after the attacks. 

Of all the stories and interviews I listened to, this particular incident made me think about the scale of fear and confusion more than any other. I developed a great amount of respect and admiration for Richard Drew and I was thankful for the bravery he had to continue shooting and the respectful way he explained his reasons for taking the picture. 

I would have been compelled to continue shooting these images as well because my work is very much focused on human behaviour, emotion and reaction. 

It's alway better to see all sides of a situation even when it's difficult to accept. Photography isn't just about cute kittens and the prettiest bride on her wedding day. It's about moments in time, portraying a feeling without hearing sound and producing such a powerful, thought provoking image that it needs no explanation. 

For all these things........Thank you Richard Drew.

I dedicate this blog to all the men, women and children who lost their lives that day. May you rest in eternal peace.