This information is provided by Real World Media, LLC for educational and informational purposes only. It is not legal advice and should not be used as a substitute for consulting with a licensed attorney who specializes in adult entertainment or media law. Laws may vary by state and can change over time. For specific legal guidance regarding your personal or professional situation, please consult an attorney.
Understanding the Laws: Working in the Adult Entertainment Industry
At Real World Media, LLC, we believe everyone who works with us should understand the laws that help keep performers and producers safe, protected, and compliant. The adult entertainment industry is legal in the United States, but it is also carefully regulated by federal laws designed to ensure that all performers are adults, that everyone gives consent, and that all content is made responsibly and ethically.
Below is a simple explanation of the key federal laws that apply to adult content creation and production.
1. Age Verification Laws (18 U.S.C. § 2257)
This law says that every person shown in adult photos or videos must be at least 18 years old.
Producers and companies like Real World Media must:
- Check and keep copies of government-issued photo IDs for every performer.
- Record the performer’s legal name, date of birth, and stage name (if used).
- Store these records safely so they can be reviewed by federal authorities if needed.
This law protects everyone and ensures that no minors (anyone under 18) are ever involved in adult content.
2. Consent and Record Keeping
Before filming or photographing any performance, every participant must sign written consent forms confirming that they understand the nature of the content being made and agree to take part.
Producers are legally required to keep these consent forms and ID records in secure files.
This ensures that all performances are completely voluntary, transparent, and legal.
3. Laws Against Obscenity
Federal law allows adult content that is made and shared between consenting adults, but it does not allow content considered “obscene.”
“Obscene” means material that has no artistic, social, or educational value and is intended only to offend.
Most professionally made adult content, including the creative and artistic productions made by Real World Media, is protected under the First Amendment (free speech) — as long as it is made responsibly, ethically, and consensually.
4. Anti-Trafficking and Exploitation Laws
It is illegal under federal law to use force, threats, or deception to make anyone appear in adult productions.
The Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA) makes it a serious crime to exploit or pressure anyone to participate in adult content.
Real World Media, LLC has a zero-tolerance policy for coercion, trafficking, or exploitation of any kind. All participants work freely, knowingly, and can stop participation at any time.
5. Tax and Business Laws
People who work in adult entertainment are usually considered independent contractors or freelance performers.
This means that each performer is responsible for reporting their own income and paying applicable taxes.
Real World Media, LLC encourages all talent to maintain accurate records and to seek advice from a licensed tax professional to ensure compliance with all federal and state tax laws.
In Short
- All performers must be 18 years or older.
- Everyone must give written consent before filming or photography.
- Producers must verify and record identification.
- Content must be legal, consensual, and ethical.
- No one may ever be pressured or forced to participate.
At Real World Media, LLC, we proudly follow all federal record-keeping and performer-safety regulations to create a professional, safe, and respectful environment for everyone involved.