Hello, I'm professional fashion photographer and have a photo studio in midtown manhattan /NY. Most of my clients are independent models and modeling agencies. I’m working with magazines and fashion companies. A lot of times I received calls from “escort agencies” or “independent escort” to take sexy, erotic, nude photos, but I never did business with them, simply replying that we are “NOT THAT TYPE OF PHOTOSTUDIO”. But lately fashion business kind a slow and I’m trying to expand my services to stay in business. A lot of my friend’s photographers, take “escort” jobs without making a big deal of it. But I don’t feel secure if I don’t know FOR SURE that whole thing is LEGAL.
Please let me know if there is any laws saying that photostudio in NYC can not do erotic or nude photography? If it’s legal, is there any restrictions? Or limitation? Or special paperwork need to be done? Or license to be issued?

Thanks,
Tim

As long as the photos do not include sex acts and that you have signed consent from the models with proof they are over 18, you will not be doing anything illegal as far as I know. There is nothing illegal about taking such photos. The illegality comes in where they are published.

I would, however consult an attorney to draw up an agreement for these instances. I would make sure the agreement states that you are doing these photographs for the PERSONAL use of the model. That, upon payment of your fee, you will turn over all proofs and negatives to the model. I would make sure that you keep copies of proof of age attached to these contracts.

Then enjoy the shoots and don't worry. Need someone to work the lights? ;)

I am a photographer and I had to tale to an attorney... fortunate for me some of my class mates were in law school... you will need to contact an attorney for the various forms that are necessary for you fill out... there are copyright issues, consent forms, building codes you must meet if the owners wants you to get their permission to take a picture in front of their property... and if you have a dark there is a need to contact OHSA.. and there are regulations with the type of chemicals used... if you pay your models contact the IRS for a DVD/CD titled the Small Business Resource Guide for that year... but first contact an attorney... there are many laws and restrictions for this profession