What is the sharing of intimate images?
Sharing intimate images can provide a sense of freedom and empowerment. It can contribute to our relationship with the person(s) with whom the images are shared, strengthening our trust in them.
If the experience is to remain a positive one, it must be consensual—in other words, desired by everyone involved. When we talk about intimate images, we include the following:
- Nudes: images of nudity
- Hot/erotic/pornographic images: videos featuring striptease, masturbation, consensual sexual relations or sexually suggestive material
- Sex talk: sexually suggestive conversations intended to arouse another person
- Sexting: text messages with sexual or erotic content.
Without the consent of the person appearing in the image/video and that of the person receiving the content (on social media, dating sites or porn sites, etc.),
the sharing of this content is illegal.
Note that any sexual representation of a minor is also illegal,
even if the minor consents.
As in the case of any sexual activity, all aspects of this image-taking and exchange must be validated by both parties involved. If this condition is not respected, the activity becomes a non-consensual sexual act and an invasion of privacy. It is also a betrayal of the trust and autonomy of the people concerned that can have serious legal and emotional consequences.
Your private life belongs to you.
Your choices must be respected at all times.
The keys to respecting consent at all times
If you wish to share intimate images of yourself, there are strategies that can help to maintain your anonymity if ever the image content is shared without your consent.
- Do not reveal any distinctive physical attributes that could easily identify you (tattoos, hairstyle, scars, etc.).
- Pay attention to the image’s framing and surroundings, as some environments are less recognizable than others.
What’s also important is that you and your partner agree on the criteria for sharing intimate images and that you respect them at all times, making sure you’re both enthusiastic!
- For example, you could agree to delete the photos once they have been received.
- You could also keep your personal images on your phone in order to choose when you show them to your partner.
If you have doubts about how to approach the subject with a partner, of if you have questions, you can also talk to someone you trust, such as someone close to you or a counsellor. Whether you choose to talk to a counsellor at the Sexual Violence Helpline on the phone or by chat, you will be assured of a non-judgemental space for discussion.
