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Some Thoughts on Ethics, Sex, Sexual Identity, Modeling, Acting, Fashion and Fitness*
 

I have some strong ideas on this whole set of issues, as I'll explain. I've added this page to my site as helpful advice for aspiring actors and models, and to clarify how I work.

On behalf of the photography profession, I regret that some models have bad experiences. Using photography as a way to pressure anyone to do anything they're not comfortable with is just plain wrong.

I've photographed quite a few very attractive women and men and have a strong policy not to mix sex and business. I believe most photographers share these ethics.

However, if someone has delicate sensibilities and wants to work in acting, fashion or fitness modeling, they may run into problems. For example, a percentage of people who work in these industries are gay. I think that's nobody's business but their own and who they choose to tell about it.

In my opinion there's nothing wrong with gay guys taking pictures of men, any more than straight guys taking pictures of women. In both cases, models are sometimes subjected to unfair pressure. Whatever their sexuality, many photographers are tempted to use the power and seductiveness of their role to try and (so they hope) "score" some easy sex with very attractive models.

Many male models and actors are gay, though it would be unfair to use those career choices as a reason to assume anything. Still, that fact leads some gay photographers to assume an actor or  model might be relaxed and even receptive to an indication of sexual interest, even as a straight photographer might want a beautiful woman model to think about him. If a photographer mentions his or her feelings without pressure, an actor or model would do well to simply take it as a compliment and politely refuse.

If any pressure for sex is applied, one is certainly within his or her rights to immediately leave. And if it's in a professional job where pay and career prospects are involved, there are laws against sexual harassment, above and beyond what should constrain any ethical person.

It's no secret that these industries have their share of sleaze. I think every actor and model needs to pursue their career with that awareness - but also a generous amount of tolerance for other people's differences.

My policies on this
I'm fairly reserved in how I relate to models but, as with most people, models respond well to praise, encouragement and appreciation of their efforts. If some photographer says you look "hot" or comments on your breasts, pecs, etc., that would not necessarily be a come-on.

I am very professional about my photography. Other than shaking hands or a light tap on the shoulder, I don't touch men or women models without their specific permission. And no touching is needed to take great pictures.

More thoughts on touching, sex and love
Personally, I really like touching people. I touch more people more often than I used to. It's a warm, soothing way to feel connected to people I care about. This is one of many wonderful things I've learned from tropical, Latin American cultures.

If I know someone is fully comfortable with it. I may grasp a guy's shoulder or hold a woman's hand. I hug many of my friends each time I see them, without any of this meaning sex is involved.

I believe sex is a wonderful way to show love, but only in a long term, committed relationship. I'm glad to say that many other straight and gay people share this goal.

Others disagree with me. Especially for attractive people, the temptation can be strong for easy sex with other "hotties." I've seen plenty that shows this all too often leads to emptiness, sexual addiction, broken hearts and serious diseases (some of which can even be spread by kissing). All the more reason to value fidelity. I do.

Temptation can be awful hard to resist, especially for younger people. It's helpful to have a higher purpose in life.*

Maybe that's more than you wanted to know :), but I hope that helps clarify some issues.

-Bill

*I "handle" The Meaning of Life in another web page :)