Expert: Dan Pepper - 12/23/2008

Question
Dan,

I'm a college student interested in the adult film industry from a non-talent perspective. I have two questions:

1.   I have a general interest in nude photography as a hobby and, being on a large college campus, have considered trying to start an adult website with a friend who is good with web development. What type of legal information should I know, where could I go to get more information on this sort of endeavor, and do you have any advice?

2.   If I decided to get into the industry as a career in production, what course of action would you recommend? As you know, unlike most industries, there aren’t many career fairs and internships available for the adult industry. Where do others find their start, and how might you recommend I get mine?

Thank you very much for your time and consideration.


Answer
Dave,

1.  I would recommend you start by going to my website at www.adultwebsitelawyer.com and requesting a "cheat sheet."  It provides a great summary of the top legal issues to consider when starting an adult business.  I would then recommend you visit www.theadultbusinessformula.com and pick up Ray West's guide.  It is, in my opinion, the best guide out there for starting an adult website.

2.  If you are looking to work with the larger studios, you need to move to the San Fernando Valley in CA.  By doing smart networking out there (you can find some of the players by reading the discussion boards at sites like xbiz.com and ynot.com), you may be able to get a shot.  Otherwise, you may be able to launch your own production from the ground up if you've done your homework right.