Expert: Dan Pepper - 10/8/2008

Question
1. what laws govern the start-up in maryland. 2. what type of camera and lightning would be needed to shoot quality movies and whats the general cost. 3. estimate how much would be needed to get started with your own adult film business. 4. can i run the business and make the movies from home. 5. can i place ads in the local papers to recruit actors/actresses, if not what is the best way and the legal way. 6. Do i have to have a business license in maryland to start an adult film business

Answer
Arthur,

Below are my responses:

1.  Several, depending upon how you intend to get your talent and what type of content you're producing.  Pandering, prostitution, and obscenity laws would need to be addressed, as well as workers' compensation concerns.

2.  I am not an expert on filming equipment, but prices have typically been coming down on digital equipment.  I would highly recommend you pick up Ray West's guide at www.theadultbusinessformula.com for answers to that question, as well as great advice regarding nuts and bolts of running a new adult film business.

3.  Again, Ray West's guide will be helpful here, but the true costs are not necessarily on the start-up side - costs can run up when you talk about building a website, and marketing and promoting the business (not to mention the ongoing costs of continually producing new content).  Most of my clients spend at least 10K on producing the first film (that being a pretty bare bone production) - it also really depends on how elaborate the shoot will be.

4.  This can depend on a few things - zoning issues for one.  Do you really want your talent knowing where you live, especially if you have a problem with them later on?  I'd advise against it, even if there are no zoning laws preventing you from shooting in your home.

5.  Yes, but you need to be VERY careful about how you word your ads and where you post them.  We work with our clients on how to do this the right way.

6.  I would STRONGLY advise forming either a corporation or limited liability company for your business, which protects your personal assets in the event of any business losses or lawsuits.

I have some additional information about starting an adult film business at my website at www.adultwebsitelawyer.com.  As I always advise, you should NEVER get into this business without qualified legal help - there is simply too much risk, and too much to lose if you do it wrong.