Are Intimacy Coordinators Required for Sex Scenes?
- Evelyn Fogleman
- Aug 15, 2023
- 3 min read
Intimacy coordination is a fast-evolving profession in the film industry, contributing to the safe and consensual representation of intimate and sexual content. However, as this role has grown, there’s a lot of confusion around when intimacy coordinators need to be used and the laws and requirements surrounding them.
Below we’ll cover what intimacy coordinators do, the current SAG-AFTRA guidelines surrounding using intimacy coordinators, and how to find and vet an intimacy coordinator for your next project.
What Do Intimacy Coordinators Do?
Intimacy coordinators act as liaisons between directors, actors, and the crew for any scenes involving nudity, simulated sex, or other intimate or hyper-exposure of a performer, ensuring that there is a clear understanding of the boundaries, choreography and context of the scene.
An intimacy coordinator will support the production through the following:
Communication: Facilitating open and respectful dialogue between all parties involved about the details of the scene and how it will be filmed.
Choreography: Providing movement direction and choreographic tools as needed for the performers and the scene.
Consent: Ensuring all participants have given explicit and informed consent for every aspect of the scene.
Advocacy: Ensuring all participants’ boundaries are respected and supporting them to voice concerns or problems.
Are Intimacy Coordinators Required for Sex Scenes? Currently, there are no contractual requirements for productions to provide an intimacy coordinator to performers for filming intimate scenes. However, SAG-AFTRA has openly recommended hiring this role for its members while filming these scenes.
According to the SAG-AFTRA Standards and Protocols for Intimacy Coordinators published in 2020, “SAG-AFTRA believes that intimacy coordinators should be hired in scenes involving nudity or simulated sex or upon request for other intimate and hyper-exposed scenes.”
So while there are no firm contracts enforcing the use of intimacy coordinators, it’s the best way to ensure you’re providing your performers with the support they need to tackle these complex and challenging scenes while minimizing the potential for harm.
How to Hire an Intimacy Coordinator
Hiring an intimacy coordinator is not merely a formality but a careful process to ensure the right fit for the project. Here are some steps to consider:
Research Credentials: Look for coordinators with recognized training and experience in the industry. You can research an intimacy coordinator’s resume via IMDB or consult industry resources like the SAG-AFTRA Intimacy Coordinator Registry for lists of vetted professionals.
Discuss the Project: Clearly communicate your vision, expectations, and requirements of the scene. The more your IC understands about the project, the better equipped they are to determine if they can adequately support your needs.
Check References: Talk to previous employers or collaborators to gauge their experience and professionalism.
Where to Find Intimacy Coordinators for Hire
If you’re looking for an intimacy coordinator to collaborate on your next project, you can find listings for qualified intimacy professionals through various professional organizations and hiring lists, including:
If you want to collaborate with me on your next project, contact me for rates and availability.
Next Steps
While intimacy coordinators may not be legally required for all sex scenes, the benefits they bring to a production make them an indispensable asset. By adhering to SAG-AFTRA guidelines, productions can foster an atmosphere of safety and respect and enhance the overall quality and authenticity of the scene.
If you're planning a production that involves intimate content, consider hiring an intimacy coordinator as an investment in the well-being of your actors and the integrity of your project.
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