Expert: Dan Pepper - 2/9/2010

Question
Hello there, I have a few questions regarding some of the "behind the scenes" positions in the adult industry - also where to start as well as legal considerations.

First off, I have a degree in print based graphic design, and 6+ years in the retail portion of the adult industry. I have done everything from being a simple clerk to managing, I am very used to the product and have developed a love for the industry.

I would like to use my degree and get a consistent job with a preexisting company, whether it be doing cover/packaging designs, or photo touch-up for a website - anything in my job skill. My only problem is that I have very little experience in web-based design (programming and whatnot).

My first question is: Is there still a need in the industry for my specified set of skills, or am I a dying breed? Should I first consider going back to college before pursuing this?

My second question is basically where do I look for these types of jobs. It seems most of the adult job search sites are flooded with modeling ads, and when they actually do have a section for design and marketing, it is very outdated.

Doing work in various fetish or bdsm genres interests me the most. I fear that by designing/photo editing any of this material, whether by employment or contracted work, that I may be held legally liable if it breaks any laws.

So my third question is this: Can I be held responsible for the photo content of the images I am working on, or would this fall on the shoulders of the owners of such content? ...I guess Max Hardcore's arrest has been on the forefront of my mind on this inquiry. I'm just curious if any of his cover artists could have faced legal repercussions for simply doing their jobs.

Thank you for your time and any insight you may be able to provide. I also appreciate your past answers to other users – it's great to see folks getting help and clarity in this often times confusing industry.

Sincerely,
Missy

Answer
Hi Missy,

There is always a need for good web based design as well as graphic design.  Your best bet is to target the larger producers who would have a need for this type of talent on a full-time or regular basis.

If your preference is the fetish or BDSM genres, you may want to research kink.com, which is one of the largest producers in that area.  A good step for you would be to register on a site like xbiz.net, and promote your skills and services there.  The more active you are on sites like that, the more likely you can generate interest.  You should also consider attending the various industry shows that are held each year, and network (which is ultimately the key).

Regarding your last question, in the event law enforcement wish to bring an obscenity prosecution, they typically target the principals of the company who are doing the production.  This is not to say that can't or won't go after artists or other people involved in the periphery, it just typically is not the case.  This is a higher-risk industry, after all.

Good luck!