This interview is interesting, as the questions were more about production and protocols than the usual type of questions we get, which are based around Sssh, why we started, porn for women, or about the survey or even a particular movie. These are all topics we love and will chat endless about, but the change is wonderful and lets everyone see a little bit different aspect of our company.  It appeared in Women24 in 2012

1. How do you protect your performers? Do they sign waivers? Are there safe words? What if someone just decides they don’t feel up to doing something on a specific shooting day? I understand these performers are professionals, but we all have days where we just don’t feel sexy, right?

On my set, the fundamental rule is the performers are in charge of what takes place with their bodies – period. Prior to casting any film, we sit down with potential actors and talk about the role, portrayal, expectations, and the nature of sexual activities that are needed for the movie’s plotline and feel. With all that said, once the filming starts, no matter what they’ve previously agreed to, if they change their mind on the spot and decide they don’t want to move forward with something, we change the scene accordingly. Nobody is ever pressured to do something they don’t feel comfortable with on my set; that’s an absolute rule, something on which I have always insisted.

On top of the ethical requirement to assure the physical and emotional well-being of performers, there’s also the creative goal of capturing good sex on film that shows passion, connection, and enjoyment by both actors. Having people do things with which they’re uncomfortable, or are having second thoughts about, would be completely antithetical to that goal.

I’ve published the Sssh on-set policies and best practices for all to read. As part of those practices, we make sure every performer understands first and foremost that they always have an absolute right to say no – even if what they’re saying no to is something to which they previously, explicitly said ‘yes.’

2. Speaking about not being up for it, what happens if the men are physically struggling? We’ve all heard about fluffers and Viagra, but is ED common on set and how do you deal with it?

I can’t speak for other studios, but this really hasn’t been an issue for us. We tend to use real-life couples, or performers who have worked together before, or desire to work together, so they already have great chemistry and mutual attraction. Occasionally, a couple will ask for a few moments of privacy to get themselves into the mood, so we step out until they’re ready. For the most part, though we don’t have a problem with people being ‘up for the scene,’ so to speak.