Below are the answers to the most frequently asked questions. about working with an intimacy coordinator. If you have any additional questions about working with an intimacy coordinator, use the contact form to reach out to Rebecca directly.

​

​

Why should I hire an Intimacy Coordinator?

Intimacy coordinators create environments of care for actors and production to film scenes involving simulated sex, nudity, and other intimate contact. Intimacy coordinators ensure clear communication throughout the process, ensuring actor consent and reducing the risk of an unsafe working environment on set. ICs are also well versed in all SAG-AFTRA protocols for nudity and simulated sex scenes and work with all relevant departments to make sure Union rules are being followed.

 

When should I hire an Intimacy Coordinator?

Intimacy coordinators are department heads and should be hired at the same time that other department heads are hired. The earlier in the process you bring the IC on board, the more assistance they can offer by identifying potential issues that might arise from the intimate scenes (i.e. if a prosthetic is required or if extra time/consideration might be required for an intimate scene). Waiting to hire an IC until just before a scene shoots could cost production time and creativity.

 

What is an Intimacy Coordinator’s process?

Intimacy coordinators start by read the script/s and breakdown any scene that might require a conversation around consent. ICs then meet with the director and go through every scene identified in the script breakdown and get a sense of the director’s vision for each of the scenes. Next, ICs schedule private conversations with each actor involved in those scenes and discuss the director’s vision. The actors can then share their boundaries and their thoughts on the scenes. That information is then related back to the director and to production to gt the coordination started with all relevant departments, including legal to work on riders, wardrobe, makeup, ADs, and possibly stunts or props. On set, ICs ensure all closed set protocols are in place, make sure actor communication is clear, and occasionally assist the director with choreographing the scene.

 

How do I know if an Intimacy Coordinator is qualified?

Since it is a relatively new position on set, intimacy coordinators come from a variety of backgrounds and not all have the same training and qualifications. SAG-AFTRA has created a guideline for producers and a Registry of Intimacy Coordinators who have had training and various levels of experience on set. Follow the links to access each resource.

​

Can I afford an Intimacy Coordinator?

Intimacy coordinators are dedicated to supporting all budgets and will charge their fee based on the budget of the production. More experienced ICs usually do not accept work below the standard budget range, but newer certified ICs are available in most major markets to support smaller scale productions If you have a small budget, short film, student film, or other project without the support of a major studio, contact Rebecca through the contact form and she will connect you with other intimacy coordinators working to build their body of work. 

 

Which departments does the Intimacy Coordinator work with?

Intimacy coordinators work closely with the AD department, costumes, legal, and occasionally makeup, props, and health & safety. We can also work closely with stunt coordinators if a scene requires movement that could potentially harm performers.

 

Are Intimacy Coordinators part of a Union?

Yes! Intimacy coordinators are now members of SAG-AFTRA. At the moment, ICs are in the process of negotiating the contract with the AMPTP, so the exact nature of the contract is still forthcoming. Until that contract is negotiated, ICs can work on a nonunion contract or on a SAG-AFTRA stunt coordinator contract. 

​

How do I train to become an intimacy coordinator?

Rebecca Johannsen trained through Intimacy Professionals Association, one of several training organizations accredited by SAG-AFTRA. For a full list of qualified IC training programs, click here. 

​

​

​