FAQ
What Is an Intimacy Coordinator?
Intimacy Coordinators can all work a little differently, and everyone brings their own set of skills and experiences to a production. Here's how El approaches the role — and when you should consider bringing an IC on board.
The role
As an Intimacy Coordinator, El's role is to support the director's vision while advocating for the performers during scenes that involve physical intimacy, simulated sex, nudity, or other sensitive content. She works closely with everyone on set to ensure clear communication, respect for boundaries, and a shared understanding of what the scene requires.
She helps establish consent protocols, clarifies performers' boundaries, and choreographs intimate scenes to ensure they feel as comfortable as possible while still looking authentic on screen. Recognising that each director has a unique working style and each performer has a unique relationship to intimacy, she adapts to their processes to ensure a smooth and collaborative experience.
When should you hire an Intimacy Coordinator?
These are the types of scenes an Intimacy Coordinator can support:
Kissing scenes
Any scene that involves kissing.
Simulated sex scenes
Scenes that depict sexual activity, including masturbation and ejaculation.
Nudity
Any scene where an actor is required to be partially or fully nude.
Intimate touching
Scenes that involve intimate physical contact, such as caressing, touching specific body parts, or implied sexual contact.
Sexual assault or rape scenes
Depictions of sexual violence require careful handling to ensure the actors feel clear and supported.
LGBTQ+ intimate scenes
Scenes involving intimacy between LGBTQ+ characters, which may have specific sensitivities depending on the context.
BDSM and kink
Stories may cover complex themes around power dynamics, consent, and trust which should be handled with nuance and sensitivity — avoiding negative stereotypes and ensuring depictions are authentic and respectful.
Post-coital or post-intimacy scenes
Depictions of characters after they have engaged in intimate activity, which might involve nudity or close physical proximity.
Fantasy or sci-fi intimacy
Scenes in genres like fantasy or sci-fi that involve non-traditional forms of intimacy — between non-human characters, or with magical elements.
Simulated childbirth or medical procedures
Scenes depicting childbirth, medical exams, or procedures that require intimate positioning or nudity.
Domestic violence
Scenes involving physical altercations between intimate partners that may also have an emotional or sexual element.
Not sure whether your production needs an Intimacy Coordinator? Get in touch for a consultation — El is happy to review scenes you think may be considered intimate.