Hello,
My name is El Wood!
Intimacy Coordinators can all work a little differently and I believe that everyone can bring their own special set of skills and experiences to a production. I'm excited to share more about my journey in Intimacy Coordination in future blog entries.
What is an Intimacy Coordinator?
As an Intimacy Coordinator, my 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. I work closely with everyone on set to ensure clear communication, respect for boundaries, and a shared understanding of what the scene requires.
I help establish consent protocols, clarify performers' boundaries, and can choreograph 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, I adapt to their processes to ensure a smooth and collaborative experience.
When Should You Hire An Intimacy Coordinator?
Here are the types of scenes I 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. I can help avoid reinforcing negative stereotypes and ensure that the depiction of BDSM and Kink is 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 (e.g., 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.
I hope this provides some clarity for anyone curious for more information.
Feel free to reach out if you want to chat about how we could work together!
Warm wishes,
El