Stepping Out from Behind the Lens: A Qualitative Analysis of Erotic Photographers

Abstract

Pornography and erotica have a long history in society. According to anecdotal evidence, erotic photography has been gaining popularity in recent years (Latimer, Mommy's been very, very naughty, 2007). In order to gain a fuller understanding of erotic photography and the type of clients that participate in erotic photo shoots, qualitative interviews were conducted with eleven photographers who specialize in erotic photography. A descriptive analysis of the typical erotic photo shoot was conducted, as well as a thematic analysis of the role of the photographer. Four main themes were identified including the changing nature of erotic photos, the relationship between the photographer and the client, the erotic photo shoot experience, and motivations. Interviewing the individuals who are actively involved with the production of erotic photography provides a unique opportunity to learn more about how this type of photography and how it can be seen as a reflection of the changing nature of sexuality in our society.

Bare’ing it all for the Camera: Women’s Experience of Having Erotic Photographs Taken

“…Erotic photographers suggest that having professional erotic photographs taken has become an increasingly popular activity for women of diverse ages, sizes and stages of life, and the photographers perceive positive consequences from this experience for women's body esteem and sexuality (Wentland and Muise 2010). To gain more insight into this experience, the current study explored erotic photography from the perspective of the female client.…”

“…Another participant mirrored this sentiment, ''at first I was doing it as a Christmas present for him, but as I went through the process I realized that it was actually probably more for me'' (Marcia). This idea was also endorsed by photographers who participate in erotic photo shoots (Wentland and Muise 2010). Some women also expressed that while some aspects of their sex life are pursued with their partner in mind, the photos were something they did for themselves.…”

“…Boudoir photographs were described as less explicit and more likely to involve lingerie style clothing, whereas in other erotic photos the participant was nude and/or engaging in actual or implied sexual activity. Women may pursue these various ''types'' of erotic photos in the same photo shoot (Wentland and Muise 2010).…”

“…In addition, erotic photographers suggest that women who participate in erotic photography are diverse in terms of age, body size, and motivations. Women are having these photos taken not just as a gift for a partner but also for personal empowerment due to these changes in women's sexuality (Wentland and Muise 2010). Kleinplatz (1996) suggests that sexologists have generally overlooked the role of eroticism in sexuality research and therapy.…”

“…According to the article, these erotic photo sessions generally involved a makeover and dressing up in lingerie or fantasy outfits, such as ''Naughty Nurses'' or ''Sexy Santas,'' to have sexual pictures taken and retouched by the photographer. Our research exploring this phenomenon from the perspective of erotic photographers suggests that this experience may contribute to positive sexuality by increasing women's body and sexual esteem (Wentland and Muise 2010). However, this initial study did not explore the perspective of clients who have erotic photos taken by professional photographers.…”