General & Writing Consults - yes, maximum 3 people. Please let me know ahead of time.

Production consults & meetings are more effective when they are a small working group of department heads, and we can always work on a solution that fits your needs.

The sessions would potentially have different intentions.

As a Writer, you might seek guidance on how to add one or two lines to clarify the arc, mood, or story that your intimate scene represents. It’s not intended to be a shot list or storyboard, as that would be created by the eventual Director. We’re looking to change phrases like “…and they fell into bed…” to include intent, objective, obstacles, etc.

As a Writer-Director, you may be thinking ahead to your tone, framing, etc. This could be an opportunity to lay out a few sentences to help your eventual Intimacy Coordinator advise on casting notices, prep riders, and build a schedule.

COPY EDITING AND PROOFREADING
I am a Certified Copy Editor and Proofreader. As part of my Intimacy readthrough, I can note any typos or editorial questions. Copyediting is not the same as a Script Format read (which checks if your script is formatted correctly). This service is purely copy-related and included in the original base rate. If you need help with your script structure, I recommend working with someone specializing in that work.

“No, and…”

I am on a certification track, and one of the requirements for SAG-AFTRA certification is 20 confirmed production days on a SAG set. It is not only acceptable to do this work while pursuing certification, it’s built into the certification process.

More broadly, the role of Intimacy Coordinator has existed for longer than certification. Some of the most qualified individuals booking today may not be certified.

To view my relevant training and experience, please see my Intimacy Coordination resume here.

PRE-PRODUCTION: An Intimacy Coordinator (IC) can help build an Intimacy Breakdown to incorporate into the shooting schedule. They can also provide guidance on how to include and note intimate scenes in casting notices. They will note any supplies or wardrobe that need to be purchased.

AFTER CASTING: The Intimacy Coordinator will need time with each actor individually and with all scene partners. They will also need time with the Director to confirm plans and expectations. In most cases, they will want to connect with all crew members onsite or in the room the day of.

SIGNED RIDERS: SAG-AFTRA requires signed riders 48 hours before filming intimate scenes. Any changes to the filming plans after that point require resetting the clock and may push the shooting schedule. Even if filming non-union, this is an excellent guidepost to prevent decisions made under pressure that could have repercussions later. Riders also outline what can and will appear in the final edit and what, if any, materials can be used in promotion.

ON SET: The IC is responsible for many parts of how the set runs on the day of the scene. They will monitor the actors, the positioning of bodies, set and prop pieces, and wardrobe. They will be mindful of barriers, covers, and any scene-specific protocols (for example, mouthwash intervals during kissing scenes, or robe availability). They may need access to call for a CUT to make adjustments. They may need time at the top of the day or set-up to explain protocols to all crew members.

POST PRODUCTION: Depending on what’s been negotiated, the Intimacy Coordinator may view your final edit before release to confirm it aligns with all agreements in the signed riders.

Whether your production is non-union or falls under one of the SAG-AFTRA theatrical contracts, a good rule of thumb is to budget the same day rate, weekly rate, or flat rate that you would for a Stunt Coordinator*. You may receive quotes from $1200/8h (plus 18% for Health & Pension). These rates are for planning purposes only. All negotiations, budget-level, and market considerations would be discussed directly with your Intimacy Coordinator.

Depending on the complexity of the day, the number of actors in the scene, or the number of locations, it may be necessary to budget for an Intimacy Coordinator Assistant.

Intimacy Coordinators also have professional Intimacy Kits, and like other departments, they may have a daily kit fee to cover reusable and expendable items.

Production-specific barriers and coverings would be an additional production cost and can be negotiated between Wardrobe and Intimacy.

For current SAG-AFTRA rates for Stunt & Intimacy Coordinators see https://www.sagaftra.org/industry-resources/rates-agreements

The SAG-AFTRA Intimacy Coordinator Registry is located here.

General SAG-AFTRA Intimacy Coordinator Resources and Publications can be found here.

An open letter with additional perspective on the certification process. Published in the Journal of Consent Based Performance here.

I am based in Philadelphia, PA located on Lenapehoking (Lenni-Lenape) lands. Please join me in supporting state recognition of past and current Lenape Nation contributions here: https://www.change.org/p/state-recognition-for-lenape-nation-of-pa-lenapenationofpa-lnpa