Be Photographed

Photo shoots are the most important part of the project, so we take them very seriously. Dawn’s priority is to portray both the project and its subject in a way that makes all participants comfortable. Since this is an ever-evolving project created by and for an endlessly diverse community, input from models is taken very seriously. The goal is to portray each couple’s experience of intimacy accurately.

How it Works

The process begins with a half-hour consultation that covers topics including the goals of the overall project, what the couple feels is most intimate within their relationship, and how that can be best represented photographically. If you are from a city other than Pittsburgh, this consultation can be done over the phone. Once the shoot concept has been developed, a location and date are selected.

Every couple signs a photo release form that gives The Intimacy Project the rights to the images and also protects from people using the photographs for anything other than personal use. The photos will never be used outside of the context of the project and its promotion.

The process begins with a half-hour consultation that covers topics including the goals of the overall project, what the couple feels is most intimate within their relationship, and how that can be best represented photographically. If you are from a city other than Pittsburgh the consultation can be done over the phone. Once the shoot concept has been developed a location and date is then selected.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do we have to be naked?

A: Absolutely not! Intimacy is very versatile subject matter, and each couple decides what intimacy means for themselves and within the context of their relationships. Photo shoots have included everything from people walking their dogs to playing video games together. If you prefer to be naked, that’s okay, too!

Q: What if one of us is not OUT?

A: Not a problem. There are plenty of people who believe in the project but would not like to be recognizable. Use of artistic lighting and angles can transform a photo of two individuals into a representation of 2 unrecognizable figures. This can actually make the images more relatable to the community at large. We are here to honor and appreciate your relationship, not to invade your privacy.

Q: What if we do not like our images?

A: This has never happened, but a great deal of respect is paid to couples to make sure that each individual feels happy with the way they are being portrayed. If you are unsatisfied, your images will simply not be used in the exhibit.

Q: Are we able to have any of the photographs?

A: Yes! You will receive a free 8×10 of any photograph you would like from the shoot. All of the photos are posted to a secure proofing site where they may be privately accessed and purchased. Digital image files are not provided due to the ease in which they can be reproduced. Prints are very reasonably priced.