Protecting models from sexual harassment on set is a top priority in the professional industry and should be clearly structured and bindingly regulated.

A key point is the careful selection of all participants. Reputable agencies and productions work exclusively with verified photographers, customers, and teams. It is communicated transparently in advance what kind of shooting it is, what content is planned and where the model’s personal boundaries lie. Surprises on set are not allowed.

Clear contractual regulations are equally important. This includes written content, the degree of freedom, usage rights for the images, as well as a clearly defined no-go spectrum. These agreements provide models with legal and personal protection.

On set, the principle of professional distance applies. Physical contact is only allowed if it is absolutely necessary, for example during styling, and is always announced in advance and explicitly confirmed by the model. Many productions also rely on so-called chaperones or confidants who accompany the model and serve as a fixed point of contact.

Another important component is the education and empowerment of models. They are trained to clearly communicate their limits, correctly assess situations, and, if in doubt, to consistently say no or cancel a shooting. A cancellation must not have any negative consequences for the model.

Additionally, a set is usually never a single situation, but consists of several people. Even if there is a “black sheep”, there is always a team on site, so a model does not have to feel helpless or alone and can claim support at any time.

Not least, there needs to be a clear complaint procedure. Reputable agencies ensure that incidents are reported, taken seriously, and consistently pursued – up to and including the exclusion of involved individuals from future productions.

Overall, effective protection is based on transparency, clear rules, respectful treatment, and active support of models – before, during, and after the job.