Sexual Misconduct and Photographers

First, there was a poster boy Terry Richardson and some lesser-known names. Then came the Hollywood’s big boys starting with Weinstein and falling like a house of cards.

I have quietly asked myself when and how the rest of the photography world is going to-be-exposed for alleged sexual misconduct?

I did not want to write about this serious and growing issue but seeing the news of my early photography mentor, Bruce Weber, been accused of such, my voice was triggered, and my opinion yearned to be heard. I do not defend or attack anyone.

“Glamour photographers would be perfect candidates for sexual misconduct allegations regardless if the act took place or not”First of all, amateur glamour photographers would be perfect candidates for sexual misconduct allegations regardless if the act took place or not. As this is nothing new, and photographers have been accused of improper behavior since I can remember and a camera has us united.

The real message here for you, the photographer, regardless if you shoot glamour, fashion, or both, is to keep yourself together and keep your sweaty palms to yourself. No models, sitting on your lap or getting too cozy because they are there for a photographic experience and not for your entertainment.

dirty-work-320 Trust me when I say that despite all that’s going on in the world today, this is only the beginning. I know many photographers have lost their lifelong careers and reputations for their actions and personal desires And, some inevitably have been falsely accused about misconduct that never took place, but opportunity seekers have presented a chance for financial gain.

While working at Playboy, we were advised to be cautious and never put yourself in an alternative situation and complete your shoot in the most professional way possible.

An assistant, makeup person or wardrobe stylist was always to be present during the shoots. Avoid putting yourself into situations which may lead to the undesirable or alternative outcome!

So, how can you protect yourself without being tangled in the new-found era and popular misconduct drama?

Here are a few solutions that come to mind

Always act professionally.
Never touch your model.
Never ask if she needs help with her wardrobe, or take action assisting without her consent and the presence of a trusted assistant.
Never have a model sit in your lap or try to give her a massage.
Inviting a model for dinner or drinks may result in a misunderstanding.
Wanting to meet the new model before the shoot “to get to know her better.”
Avoid situations which are not part of a professional courtesy or professional photo shoot.
Practice common sense.

These are just a few tenants that I have lived by to avoid improper misconduct or being falsely accused. The sad scenario is that if you were to be; falsely accused of sexual misconduct. It could be just as damaging to a photographer’s career regardless if you are guilty or not.

SEXUAL-MISCONDUCT-broken-trust

For most of you out there that think that this is absurd, wait until you are on that hot seat. Never discount a model’s power which will be heard way before you can even defend yourself. Choose your actions wisely; your career depends on it. Use common sense, and no one has to be scared as long you act professionally.

As a wrap up for this post, here’s a music video “Being Boring” (1990) from Pet Shop Boys directed by Bruce Weber, where I appear as a model (slight male nudity is present). See if you can spot the young Jarmo. Would this be considered improper misconduct as directed by Bruce Weber? You decide!