As a male photographer in a business that is overwhelmingly (but not exclusively!) marketed toward women, I’m highly sensitive of the importance of ensuring my clients feel safe through the entire process of their photoshoot — from booking and planning, to the photoshoot itself, to the final release of photos and products.

To that end, I’ve developed my personal ethical guidelines to help my clients navigate this very intimate and vulnerable form of art. Being a safe photographer means establishing the utmost professionalism and trust; so, I’ve developed a non-negotiable ethical code of conduct to ensure my clients have an empowering, positive experience from beginning to end.

Before your photoshoot

When you book your photoshoot, you’ll immediately begin the process of customizing your photoshoot by answering some questions and prompts. If you like, you may request a consultation, which may be by phone or video chat.

During this process, you’ll be asked if you wish to be photographed nude (it does affect the flow of the photoshoot, so I like to know in advance if possible!). You are welcome to change your answer at any time, but I will never ask or suggest to my clients that they shoot in the nude.

Importantly, I will not discuss any creative details of a photoshoot without a deposit. While I love helping my clients bring their vision to life, it’s important that I reserve that time for clients who have already decided to make the investment.

During your photoshoot

While I believe there is value in embarking on this journey by yourself, you are absolutely welcome to bring a friend for your own comfort. They are welcome to wait outside the studio or come in with you.

Regardless of whether you will be nude, I will step out of the studio when you are undressing or changing, unless you verbalize that you are comfortable with me staying in the studio so that I may begin setting up the lighting for your next set.

Any posing coaching I offer will be strictly verbal, or possibly with my own hilarious demonstration; I never use touch cues under any circumstances. If you choose to use body paint or tape, some contact will be required. I apply paint with brushes, and creating a tape suit may require some touch due to the meticulous placement of the individual pieces; I will ask you about your comfort level prior to applying paint or tape.

After your photoshoot

Your photos remain private by default; I will never release your photos to the public without your written consent. Your digital downloads, included in the price of your photoshoot, will be stored in a password-protect online gallery and will require a four-digit download pin. If you are an erotica client, your photos will be delivered on a USB drive. In all cases, I will delete your photos after 30 days.

Your comfort and safety matter above all else

Boudoir photography is incredibly fun. It’s creative, sensual, artistic, sexy, bold, and evocative. But it also demands the utmost professionalism, trust, and safety. I want your fine art boudoir photoshoot to be an unforgettably wonderful, uplifting experience — I hope these guidelines help! If you have any questions or concerns, please contact me.