Intimacy Coordination ... the low down
FOR THOSE WHO PREFER TO BE PROACTIVE NOT REACTIVE
WITH ENDLESS STORYTELLING POSSIBILITIES:
The on set and live performance experience is always memorable, but for either the right or the wrong reasons.
The short version:
Intimacy coordination is the process that makes intimate scenes clear, structured and risk‑aware, so cast and crew know exactly what’s happening - creatively and physically to support them psychologically.
The real‑world version:
It’s the difference between everyone guessing… and everyone being on the same page.
It’s boundaries, communication, consent, risk‑reduction, and performance clarity all wrapped into a process that protects the story, supports the people, and reduces wasted time during production.
Why it matters:
Intimate scenes carry psychosocial and wellbeing risks that productions are now expected to manage, not just creatively, but professionally. Not all Intimacy Coordinators take specialised additional training to fully understand how to reduce risk in a way that aligns with Australian psychosocial safety requirements. That’s where a properly trained intimacy coordinator comes in.
From make out sessions to handling the tiniest of little humans ... I've got the touchy feely stuff sorted!
Prep & Clarity
Clear, compliant, risk‑aware preparation from the outset. No guesswork. Just industry‑aligned processes that reduce risk and keep your production running smoothly.
✔ Script analysis for psychological and physical risk
✔ Scene‑specific risk reduction planning
✔ Evidence‑based protocols for cast and crew wellbeing
✔ Documentation that supports WHS and psychosocial compliance
On‑Set Coordination
The trusted bridge between creative vision and performer boundaries — keeping communication open and departments aligned.
✔ Translating director vision into clear, consent‑aligned performances
✔ Collaboration with costume on modesty garments and coverage
✔ Coordination with ADs on closed‑set protocols as needed
✔ Liaison with other HODs such as prosthetics, DP, makeup, SFX
Performance Support
Helping intimate scenes land with clarity, intention and continuity.
✔ Movement and intimacy choreography (when requested)
✔ Techniques for simulation and masking
✔ Appropriate use of PPE and physical barriers
✔ Clear, repeatable actions that support continuity and performance
Scenes should be memorable for all the RIGHT reasons.
Why Your Production Needs Consent and Boundary Protocols (Even if You're Still Not Convinced)
As a producer, you're juggling a lot: schedules, budgets, crew, logistics… and now psychosocial WHS obligations too. Hiring an intimacy professional isn’t about ticking a box, it’s about choosing someone who actually understands the psychological and creative load of intimate scenes.
A properly trained intimacy coordinator meet psychosocial safety requirements. Clear consent protocols, documented processes and risk‑aware preparation mean fewer surprises, fewer delays and a workflow that supports both performer wellbeing and the story everyone's trying to tell.
Most union guidlines define intimacy as intimate interaction involving bodily contact between performers whether sexual or otherwise, whether sexually violent or not and whether involving nudity or not. It also includes intimate interaction of a performer in a sexual or exposing manner. Any forms of nudity (partial, scantily clad, underwear) is also considered intimate.
MEAA guidelines on intimacy
Anytime the scene depicts nudity or semi-nudity.
If there is sexual activity depicted on stage, on camera or in audio.
If there are any other sensitive or exposing factors of the scene; those specific to the creative
approach (eg. a graphic or violent nature).
Power dynamics that would make a performer feel pressure to consent.
Cultural considerations.
Young performers.
'Make out' scenes.
When should I consider engaging an Intimacy Professional?
Currently, in Australia, MEAA has provided a framework for the stage and screen industries when creating, performing or recording performances of Intimate Scenes. The aim is to encourage the inclusion of Intimacy Professionals where beneficial or requested and to highlight the importance of consent. There have been recent changes to SAG-AFTRA contract and requirements for Intimacy Coordinators.
Do I have to use an Intimacy Professional?
HERE'S HOW WE'LL DO THIS:
01
SCRIPT BREAKDOWN
Identify intimate scenes while flagging aspects that could be overlooked.
04
DOCUMENT
Provide risk assessments in addition to script breakdown, best practice protocol documents, set reports and if needed, create a layperson's overview of what is and is not consented to (non-legal document).
02
ASCERTAIN VISION
Understand the wish list of action, nudity, costuming. Go big ... there's no harm in asking for what you want.
05
LIAISE
Liaise with creatives (re any misalignments in vision to find solutions). Collaborate with ADs, wardrobe, DOP, art department (e.g. prosthetics), as needed.
03
UNDERSTAND BOUNDARIES
Actor communication - private/confidential meetings.
06
REHEARSE
Attend rehearsals (if scheduled), provide movement direction/choreography (if requested) based on director's preferred process.
07
PERFORM
Pre shoot/performance actor check-ins, assist with modesty garments, rehearsal of blocking, authenticity assistance (if requested), solutions.
As a former professional dancer and Performing Arts educator, I am now an internationally certified Intimacy Coordinator. My extensive training, is leveraged with aligned tertiary qualifications and diverse transferable skills to attentively support productions. I take a collaborative approach to enhance intimate storytelling, while contributing to a dynamic, unforgettable on set experience.
