Search and Rescue at Ground Zero: September 12th to 16th, 2001

9/11 is among the most photographically documented events in history. But photos of the site in the immediate days after the attack are exceedingly rare. French photographer, director, and producer Stéphane Sednaoui felt compelled—not as a photographer but as a human being—to rush down to what would come to be known as Ground Zero, to volunteer in the search and rescue efforts. In the moments when the workers would pause, he would take pictures.

Stéphane Sednaoui has received critical acclaim for directing landmark videos with U2, Madonna, Björk, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers, among others.