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Let Them Take Selfies! Rethinking the No Photos Rule

Byournaturistlife
The no photos rule. A nude woman relaxing in a chair in a natural setting, enjoying the sunlight.

Naturism has long had a golden rule: no photos. No cameras. No filming. No digital record of who was where, nude.

That rule made sense for decades. It protected people from being exposed… in every sense of the word. Naturism thrived on privacy, trust, and community. The idea was simple: leave your phone behind, be present, and let everyone feel safe in their skin.

But we’re now living in a very different world. One where identity is often shared, not hidden. Where documenting your life is not just common, it’s expected. For younger generations especially, social media is not optional. It’s how they relate to friends, build communities, and express who they are.

Maybe it’s time to change the no photos rule.

To understand the pressure younger naturists feel around photography, we have to understand what platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat have become. These aren’t just apps for vanity or trends. They’re tools for identity-building and community connection.

Younger people use social media to share their values and experiences with their circles. They document personal growth and their journeys. Their posts signal what they believe in and invite others into that story. It gives them opportunity to feel seen in a world that often tells them to conform. For many, “If it’s not shareable, it doesn’t feel real.”

That might sound strange to older generations, but for digital natives, storytelling happens through images. Their online identity is an extension of their real one. So when a naturist space says “no photos at all,” the unintended message becomes: “You can be here, but you can’t be proud of it.” Or “You can live this, but don’t tell anyone.”

So it’s time we asked an honest, maybe uncomfortable question. Is the “no photos” rule in naturist spaces helping naturism thrive?

Or is it keeping people away?

The Origins of the Rule: Safety and Trust

Let’s be clear. The original purpose behind banning photography in naturist spaces was, and still is, absolutely valid.

People could lose jobs, custody battles, or housing if their naturism was exposed. Women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and marginalized communities often faced disproportionate risk if their nudity was misused. Predators and voyeurs have historically used photos to objectify or exploit naturists. Once an image is online, it’s there forever. Consent can’t be retroactively applied.

The no-photos rule built trust. It reassured people that their nude body wouldn’t become someone else’s content. That trust has been foundational.

But something has changed…

Just type ‘naked’ into Instagram search and you’ll be greeted by a world tour of human butts. There are butts on mountaintops, butts in bathtubs, butts mid-cartwheel in the desert. It’s less social media and more a never-ending gallery of global glutes. Each one hashtagged like it’s a spiritual awakening.

We have said this before, if everyone who displayed their butts in Instagram would just turn around and show their faces, we would normalize nudity overnight!

A New Generation, A New Culture

Younger naturists live in a world where self-documentation is a language. Not being able to take a selfie or post a moment from a nude beach feels like exclusion, not protection.

And in a time when naturism desperately needs more visibility, especially ethical, authentic visibility, that’s a real problem.

Because here’s what we’ve observed. Influencers with respect and ethics are being silenced while performance nudity marketers and voyeur accounts dominate naturist hashtags.

Genuine young naturists want to promote body acceptance, freedom, and social nudity. But they’re blocked from doing so.

The result?

Naturism looks frozen in time. Old rules, older people, and no clear place for the digital generation.

We’re Not Saying: “Open the Camera Floodgates”

We’re not suggesting every beach become a selfie studio, or that naturist events should be filmed like music festivals.

We’re saying there’s a middle ground. One where we evolve the rule without erasing its intent.

Consent still comes first. Always. But consent today can be proactive, informed, and managed with more nuance than blanket bans.

What a Modern Naturist Photography Policy Could Look Like

Here’s how responsible photography could be allowed in naturist spaces, without sacrificing privacy, safety, or respect:

Opt-In Zones: Practical, Consent-Based Spaces. Opt-in photography zones aren’t about turning naturist spaces into Instagram playgrounds. They’re about offering people a choice. A designated, clearly marked area where everyone present has explicitly agreed to be photo-visible.

On Naturist Beaches: A roped-off or flagged section near scenic features where photography is permitted. Clear signage at beach entrances explaining the zone, what’s allowed, and how to opt in. Perhaps a physical marker (like a bracelet, token, or visible towel tag) to indicate that someone is comfortable being photographed and people without that marker cannot be filmed. Directional rules that photos must face inward (toward water, or a private cove), not toward the rest of the public beach.

At Naturist Clubs and Resorts, a specific “photo garden,” scenic lounge, or selfie deck where members can pose privately. Pre-approved photo windows, certain hours when designated areas are opened for content creation with staff supervision. Guests sign a photography consent waiver for that zone, and are reminded to ensure no one else appears in the frame.

Event-specific opt-in: for example, a “Naturist Memories Photo Hour” at sunset, announced in advance.

During Hikes, Events, and Group Activities, a meet-up spot where those who want to take photos can gather, away from non-consenting participants. Group leaders can explain the rules clearly. “This is a photo-optional moment. If you’d like to participate, please step into the designated area.”

Wristbands, Tokens, and Consent Markers can be used to support opt-in photography zones, naturist venues could offer wristbands or lanyards (green for photo-okay, red for no-photos). Small visible badges or towel cards people place next to them in photo-optional areas. Digital registration options where guests sign a consent form and are then given access to designated content zones.

This also helps photographers easily identify who is comfortable being included, without guesswork or verbal interruption.

What Still Shouldn’t Change

Let’s be firm where it matters most… no stealth photos. Ever. No photos where others might accidentally appear in the background. No filming in pools, spas, showers, or anywhere consent isn’t absolute. No commercial content without group, subject, and venue consent. No assumption that someone’s nudity equals consent to be photographed.

Photography in naturism should always be the exception, not the default. But exceptions can exist in ethical, respectful ways.

Why This Matters for the Future of Naturism

This isn’t just a young people issue.

We’re in our 40s and 50s. We didn’t grow up with social media but we’re part of the generation that uses it just as much now. We like sharing meaningful experiences. We take photos of the places we go, the moments we share, the people we love.

We wrote about my reasons for photography in our article “The Lens I Remember Through.” And we’ve found ourselves increasingly drawn to “natural” spaces over naturist spaces, simply because we can bring a camera. The importance of memories, how the simple act of taking a photo together on a beach, hiking trail, or rocky cove helps us preserve the moment. It helps us reflect on our journey, on our confidence, on how far we’ve come.

So in the spaces where we cannot, we rarely attend.

That’s not vanity. That’s storytelling.

Naturism has long asked people to leave the world at the gate. And while that may have made sense in an era of disposable cameras and newspaper scandals, today it comes at a cost. It makes naturism feel like a secret club, not a lifestyle worth sharing.

We need to stop pretending that visibility is the enemy. Hiding behind privacy walls isn’t helping naturism grow. It’s helping the stereotypes persist.

And here’s the truth… the more real naturists document and share their experiences, with consent, ethics, and clarity, the more the world sees what naturism truly is. Not sexual. Not shameful. Just human.

Photography, done right, can normalize the sight of non-sexual nudity. It will invite curiosity from newcomers who might otherwise never try it. It can show the diversity of naturist bodies, ages, and experiences and create connection across geography, language, and background. It can give couples and families like us lasting memories of a life lived freely.

This is about more than policy… it’s about legacy. If naturism wants to thrive beyond the current generation, it needs to meet people where they are.

And right now, people of all ages are documenting their lives online through images and video.

Let’s not block that. Let’s guide it.

Why Opt-In Zones Are Good for Club Marketing.

Naturist clubs and resorts are struggling. Membership is aging. Many are closing, downsizing, or barely staying afloat. At the same time, public curiosity about naturism is growing, people are searching online, joining discussions, and craving body-positive spaces.

But when they look up a naturist venue… many have no photos. No content. No smiling faces or images of people having fun. No real sense of what to expect. That doesn’t inspire confidence, it inspires hesitation.

By offering opt-in photography zones, clubs create safe, consent-based opportunities for promotion. Visitors who feel good about their experience can share photos, tag the location, and talk about what made the space welcoming. That kind of organic visibility is more powerful than any ad campaign.

Imagine these real outcomes:

  • A first-time couple posts a photo in the sunset garden and tells their friends, “We felt totally free here.”
  • A young adult shares a tasteful reel or story from a naturist hike zone and demystifies what social nudity looks like.
  • A travel blogger includes a photo from a photo-friendly corner of a club in their destination write-up, giving the club free, ethical exposure.

Clubs that support ethical content creation gain:

  • A stronger online presence.
  • More diverse membership interest.
  • A better chance at attracting modern naturists who want to live their values publicly.

Instead of fearing cameras, clubs can lead by example, showing how consent and visibility can work together.

And honestly? If your venue’s values are strong, your community is respectful, and your space is beautiful — why wouldn’t you want people sharing that?

For Clubs Still Feeling Hesitant

You don’t have to overhaul your entire policy overnight. Start small. Try one zone. One hour. One trial event with a clear consent process and a moderator. See how it feels. Talk to your members about what would make them feel comfortable.

But doing nothing? That’s a bigger risk.

If naturist venues don’t adapt, they’ll keep watching their memberships shrink while the public face of “nudity” gets hijacked by people with very different intentions.

Consent-based photography isn’t a threat. It’s an opportunity. An opportunity to show the world what real, ethical, joyful naturism looks like… before someone else tells the story for you.

Some Clubs Are Already Getting It Right

We’re not the only ones saying this. Some naturist clubs and resorts have been doing these things for a while and others are finally starting to get it. They’re easing up on the outdated “no photos, ever” rule.

Several allow personal photography in designated areas, or by using a simple but effective wristband system.

These wristbands work as an instant, visible signal of consent:

  • Green wristband: I’m fine being in photos or videos.
  • Red wristband: Do not photograph me… ever.
  • Yellow wristband: Some places also use yellow or custom colors for “ask me first.”

It’s an easy, respectful solution that balances privacy with freedom. Those who are comfortable sharing can do so, while those who aren’t can relax without worrying. No need for endless arguments or outdated blanket bans. Just a system built on personal choice and mutual respect.

We used this during a games day at our local park. We just used some flag tape that anyone could tie around their wrist if they didn’t want to be in a photograph. If they were accidentally in one, we just used photo tools and removed them.

That’s it. No drama, no fights, no paranoid rule policing. Just clear, visible, personal consent. Those who want to capture the moment can do it freely, and those who prefer privacy get exactly that.

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: this is what all naturist spaces should be doing. And if you are one of the clubs that are… market that shit! Don’t hide it in your policies or visitor agreement pages. Use it to your advantage throughout social media.

It’s respectful, it’s modern, and frankly, it’s the only way forward if we want naturism to grow with younger generations and people like us who live their lives through photos and sharing.

Let’s Be Honest… People Are Already Doing It

Here’s the uncomfortable truth: Photography is already happening in naturist spaces… even where it’s banned.

We’ve seen it ourselves. Phones sneak out of bags. Quick snaps “just for me” are taken in shared spaces. People say, “Don’t worry, no one’s in the frame,” when they clearly didn’t ask. Sometimes it’s well-intentioned. Sometimes it’s not. But either way, it causes harm. We would be lying to say we have not done it ourselves.

It creates anxiety and suspicion, especially for women and marginalized naturists. It leads to whispered confrontations, silent resentment, and broken trust. And it often goes unaddressed because enforcing total bans is nearly impossible in a smartphone world.

The truth is, when people feel they can’t do something openly, some of them will do it secretly. And secrecy is the enemy of consent.

By creating clear, opt-in spaces and guidelines, clubs and communities can shift photography from something people do in defiance to something they do with respect.

This doesn’t make everyone a rule-follower overnight. But it does give those with good intentions a path to do it right. And it helps staff and members focus their attention on real boundary violations, not harmless documentation done responsibly. Trying to control everything breeds frustration.

Giving people a safe, consensual outlet fosters culture change.

Final Thoughts: Visibility With Consent

Naturism without consent is just exposure. But consent without visibility is invisibility. And that’s not working either.

It’s time to rethink the rules. Not to throw out everything that’s kept us safe, but to build something new that welcomes a wider, more modern naturist world.

We believe the future of naturism includes selfies, shared stories, and online presence, as long as they’re grounded in ethics, consent, and mutual respect.

Let’s evolve the rule before the new society moves on without us.

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32 Comments

  1. One other spot that people never think about is when you arrive at a resort, and you drive to your site…How many cars have front and rear facing cameras? I do, and as soon as I pull up to the parking lot the first thing I do is I disconnect the power to them. I dont want pictures of me out there and I am sure you dont either, so this is an easy fix. removable stickers over the cameras are another option.

    Reply

  3. I Have Been An ASA/AANR Nudist For 37 Years, Pre Internet Photography Was Absolutely Allowed… 

    Permission Was Required, If  Someone Taking A Photo Of Myself Or A Group Photo, We Had To Let Everyone Who Could Possibly Be In The Photo Know “You’re In Our Frame, Is This OKAY”??? 

    If Yes, Continue, If Not, Ask Them If They Could Step Aside For A Moment, Or We Could Reposition Ourselves…

    We Also Had To Make Sure Everyone That Is In The Photo Was Absolutely Sure They Don’t Mind Being Photographed…

    If It Wasn’t For Staff Photographers And Amateur Photos, Our Nudist And Naturism Magazines Would Have Never Existed…

    Photography Was Done Very Respectfully And Mindful Of Everyone…

    In Those Days, Nudists Would Say We Take Photos And Share Them Just Like Anyone Else, Only Difference Is, We’re Naked…

    We Wrote “Might Contain Nudity”

    At The Top Of Film Envelope Before Turning In Film To Be Developed…

    To Me Being Photographed Naked At A Nudist Resort Or Nude Beach Is No Different Than Being Clothed…

    I Prefer Being Photographed Naked Versus Clothed, I Have Nothing To Hide, I Have No Problems With My Photos Being Shared With Others Or Posted Online… 

    Sharing Photos Has The Same Rules, Make Sure Those Who Are In Photos Are OKAY With Others Seeing The Photos, Always Ask The Viewers, Are You OKAY With Seeing Photos Of People Naked??? 

    And Definitely Make Sure Everyone In Photos Are OKAY With Being Online, Respect Everyone’s Boundaries…

    If We Return To Those Rules We Once Had, Photography At Our Nudist Resorts Could Absolutely Work Again…

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  4. A truly thought provoking piece – and while I hate this particular word in current usage – triggering. 

    As a long time blogger I have been posting (what I thought were) very discreet photos of our naturist travels for over ten years. Even though we were confirmed members of that “all butts and no faces” club, you wouldn’t have to fish around for very long to confirm our identities. 

    Those photos fell into the hands of the very demographic you’re speaking of! (Essentially “Gen W, X, Y and Z!”) the latter of which is most certainly exchanging images on social media much more provocative than my naked ass could ever hope to be. 

    Had it stopped there, that would have been one thing, but our naked asses we co-opted by a co-worker, and packaged to be evaluated through a judiciary process, which led to months (years, actually) of interrogation and humiliation (and considerable $$$). 

    My intent is not to commandeer this post – which is very well written and loaded with potential solutions to a very complicated problem. But my situation well illustrates a pervasive paradox that I simply can’t wrap my head around…

     – In an age where we seek to embrace varied sexual identities, fully condone (in most venues) casual sex, and the exchange of explicit images is a daily practice amidst the Snapchat generation – WHY ON EARTH ARE WE SO PARANOID ABOUT PEOPLE WALKING NAKED ON THE BEACH OR IN THE WOODS?!” – 

    I’m less concerned about the policies at a Florida nude beach or naturist resort than I am about the underlying social mores that not just equivocate nudity with sex, but immediately jumps over THAT hurdle to imply a predilection of voyeurism, exhibitionism, and even more likely – elements of sexual deviance and criminal intent. 

    To say that it’s a double standard would be a vast understatement, but I think one could draw a straight line between the black and white distinctions about “the unseemly intention of nude photography” and the political/religious/sociological chasms that have brought the entire country to the brink of a civil war! (Being dramatic here, but honestly – sorry, not sorry. 😯) 

    All this to say that you are spot on in recognizing that photophobia is a huge contributor to the stigmas so pervasive in naturism right now, but “cynical me” has little hope that wristbands or photo hours are going to do much to change the social construct that causes people to say – “People who ‘run around naked’ are clearly a danger to society.” 

    Do I think you’re wrong to pursue meaningful action amidst the naturist community? Not at all. As stated in a previous exchange, every small, incremental change is at least a step forward instead of sliding backwards – but it occurs to me that the underlying psychology of nude photography (and the distribution thereof,) in general, is way more complicated than a meme-driven campaign to normalize nudity. 

    [Thanks for listening. I’ll send you the co-pay that would have otherwise gone to my therapist this week. 🙄]

    Reply

    1. Thank you for this incredible comment. Honestly, I’m sitting here nodding along (and wincing) as I read it. You’ve been through exactly the kind of nightmare most naturists quietly fear but rarely talk about out loud. And you’re right… this double standard is bigger than a beach policy or a photo rule. It’s woven deep into our society’s bizarre relationship with the human body, sex, and control.

      We completely get your cynicism about solutions like wristbands and photo zones. They’re imperfect, we know. But part of why we keep pushing these small steps is because, well, sometimes it feels like all we can do, at least until society catches up. It’s frustrating to know that those who actively exploit sexuality online often get more social “leniency” than those of us simply enjoying everyday nudity in peace.

      Also… your therapist would totally approve of this vent. We certainly do! And your point about this being tied to larger political and cultural rifts? No apologies needed… you’re not wrong. This conversation touches everything.

      Honestly, we’d love nothing more than to hear your whole story one day, sitting around a campfire or by the pool… nude, of course! To understand the how and why. Those are the moments when naturism feels at its best. When we can just share openly, human to human, no walls between us.

      Thank you again for sharing your voice here. These are exactly the honest, hard conversations naturism needs more of.

      Reply

      1. Just found your reply to my comment – having since commented on another one of your posts. Indeed – an in-person “summit meeting” is needed to address some of these dogged concerns! 😉

        Reply

  5. As always, this is a very interesting, intelligent and informative article. Some people cannot allow their activities to be photographed due to employment. Folks in education, law, and policing have been discharged from employment after photos were published. Fair? Nope! Responsible? Nope! So this is an understandable conundrum. How can folks share a fantastic lifestyle and philosophy without publicity? Videos of groups, community, families and friends are inspiring and reflect the innocent fun of complete freedom for everyone. As often mentioned, we are trying to change society and culture! We are right and society and culture are wrong. FREEDOM, RESPECT, EQUALITY, COMMUNITY, FAMILY AND FRIENDS ARE SUPPOSED TO BE POSITIVE ASPECTS AND TRAITS FOR EVERYONE TO ENJOY LIFE! Instead, particularly in America, the status quo of materialistic greed and chasing status symbols is in direct opposition to NATURISM. Our tribe of WONDERFUL WEIRDOS better win, or this society will collapse. The current existence of society is not sustainable. Poverty, racism, misogynistic monsters,, extreme income inequality, educational inequality and total lack of respect for true freedom will be overcome or the monsters will destroy everything and everyone. Again: BE PEACEFUL REVOLUTIONARIES TO SAVE EVERYONE AND EVERYTHING WORTH SAVING!

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  6. Another great article. While I cannot be posted nude at this point, it is something given the right circumstances I would do. It will definitely advance naturism.

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  7. Rules always evolve much more slowly than society. And that also applies to nudists. Things that everyone could agree on a few years ago need to be continually questioned. That’s why I like your approach, proposing very sensible alternatives that at the very least deserve to be considered.

    What I miss is one more option: no written rules, just respect. I’m in favor of nudism in open spaces for all (although I understand that in some countries this isn’t possible). And, there, on a beach, in a park, on a lake, in a forest… there are already a series of rules, written or unwritten, that apply whether you’re naked or not.

    I don’t like to appear in other people’s photos under any circumstances, especially if I’m on a nudist beach, of course, but I’m not trying to prevent others from taking photos of themselves. It’s enough for me that they’re careful not to focus on me.

    I usually go to a beach where, at the nudist end, there are caves and spectacular rock formations. I understand that people, even non-nudists, come to take photos. It’s logical in any place like this. I haven’t seen anyone take advantage of the situation to take pictures of those of us who are naked. It’s a matter of respect, which would be the same on a textile beach (would it be okay to take photos of women in thongs without their consent?). I’m not that naive; I’m sure there are some who take advantage of it to do so secretly, but that doesn’t go away with any prohibition.

    Another question is whether the photo ban is what drives young people away from traditional nudist clubs.

    Reply

    1. It’s like trying to have a society without laws. Unfortunately, there will always be those who ruin it for others. So they end up having to be created to protect the people who understand respect, ethics, and morals that never needed them in the first place.

      Reply

      1. Laws are necessary, but not everything has to be regulated by explicit laws (maybe my anarchist soul is speaking).

        Standards of behavior are implicitly built by the community and evolve seamlessly with it. It’s fine to provide guidance for newcomers, even to create a decalogue of good practices or something like that, but only general guidelines. For me, it’s impossible to cover every possible situation. Taken to the extreme, we could reach the point of absurdity of having to go everywhere with a rule book to make sure we’re not breaking any. That would be a compelling reason for me not to return to that place, much more so than whether you can take photos or not.

        Reply


  8. No photos is an easy rule to maintain, simple and effective. No dicussions possible.

    That said i could not agree more with what you said, there are no photografic memories, sharing the moment visualy is not possible.

    There should be room for change, and that will bring on discussions, were you in or out of the zone. How about pictures taken from kids? As long as they are your own it should be okay. But how does another person now you are taking pictures from your own kid?

    So yes things need to change, i lack wisdom in how?

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  9. Well spoken, sound thinking. No pics is easier to maintain though. That said i could not agree more with your words.

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  10. This is an interesting post with some great ideas, particularly for countries with designated clothing-optional areas, including those in public spaces. Here in New Zealand there are specific laws dealing with photography in public locations:

    Here are the general rules according to law:

    It’s generally lawful to take and/or publish photos or film people in public places such as a beach, shopping mall, park or other public place without their consent.  There is no expectation of privacy in these places.​

    You must not, however, film or take photos of people if they are in a place where they can expect privacy (such as a public changing area or toilet) and that person:​

    • Is naked, in underclothes, showering, toileting etc 

    • Is unaware of being filmed or photographed, or 

    • Has not consented to be filmed or photographed. 

    You should not take photos of people if:​​

    • They are in a place where they would expect reasonable privacy and publication would be highly offensive to an objective and reasonable person

    • It has potential to stop other people’s use and enjoyment of the same place, or

    • You have no legitimate reason for taking the film or photos.

    When it comes to being naked in a public place, such as a beach or national park or on a street (think World Naked Bike Ride and other street events) there are no additional protections to those mentioned above. The same law applies whether you are clothed or naked.

    Young people are impulsive and spontaneous creatures. When a selfie is called for, it happens right then or not at all. Nobody is going to go searching for a designated photoshoot area – I don’t know of any beach here with them anyway. However, folks here are generally very considerate in making sure other people are not in their selfies (unless it’s in the midst of a crowd, maybe) – and even more so where people are naked. But during events such as community skinny-dips and naked Bike Rides, it’s open slather! If you have issues being captured at those locations, better not go at all!

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  11. A great and well-thoughtout article! I completely agree with that you’re saying. If people get into nudism they should have the choice to appear naked in photos should they wish. If they then make that part of their social media presence and spread the word, then great! As long as all parties involved agree and there is transparency and consent, this could only be a good thing.

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  12. Terrific and well thought out article. There should definitely be some sort of form of consent, a wrist band or a sign.

    Just to be contentious, I wonder if the nude beach can be deemed as a public space and therefore have no expectations of privacy. Just asking the question.

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    2. From what I can find, nudity remains a common exception. Courts frequently protect nude individuals from photography focused on intimate areas, even in public spaces. Many states and Canada have anti voyeurism laws. So it would truly depend on context of taking the images.

      Reply

  13. Your discussion is well thought out, logical and makes sense.  I fear, however, that people are not.  Your ideas work so long as everyone plays by the rules of respect and consent, but the world is full of people who will disregard those boundaries.  The problem with a trust model is that once the trust is broken, the system collapses.  

    I have always thought that clubs and naturist events could benefit from allowing people to take considered and appropriate photos, and have been frustrated by the “no phone” rules many times.  

    I am also likely not to care if I appear in the background of someone else’s picture, as I am already naked online and out there, so to speak.  I imagine that for many people, the fear of being photographed without consent is enough to keep them from enjoying the moment or even attending in the first place.  

    The no-camera rule is a safety pillar for many new to naturism.  Having said that, the policy is not doing naturism any favours and may be harming the clubs and venues trying to support and grow the philosophy.  

    Your article makes some very sensible suggestions on how to integrate cameras into naturist spaces, but it is a difficult issue to resolve.  

    For those of us who have already stepped over the line of being identified as a naturist, the fear of being outed is removed entirely.  We can’t be blackmailed or shamed. 

    Perhaps the solution lies in people being willing to openly identify as a naturist and remove the power from those looking to take advantage of the shame and fear that many naturists still feel.

    As long as we still feel shame around our nudity, the threat of being outed, and the issue of cameras in naturist areas will still exist.   

    Lose the shame, and the issue goes away.

    Reply

    1. Thank you for your comments. As mentioned in the article, people break the rules now. Some get caught, some don’t. By giving them a space, it will reduce the unknowns. I truly believe, if you remove the obstacle, it will eventually help remove the stigma. Unfortunately, there will also always be people who break rules. That’s part of overall society.

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  14. Organizations and movements need to adapt with time or face extinction. Your suggestions on how naturism can accomplish that are practical and, I suspect, would be effective. The wristband idea is particularly intriguing. Thank you again for your thoughts and wisdom.

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  15. Organizations and movements need to adapt with time or face extinction. Your suggestions on how naturism can accomplish that are practical and, I suspect, would be effective. The wristband idea is particularly intriguing. Thank you again for your thoughts and wisdom.

    Reply

  17. Creating an environment where immediate scorn or rebuke doesn’t occur if a mob phone or camera is used would be a great start.
    An environment where the ability to take photos of one another, or selfies, or have someone else take photos of you as a couple or group – simply for the purpose of creating positive memories would be ideal.
    As mentioned – an environment where the privacy and respect of others is paramount and it can be assured that no one is “accidentally” included in any back ground recordings makes it so much easier to firstly create those memories – and then if you wish to share if this is your desire.
    Very similar to what the old “Kodak photo spots” used to be like at Disneyland

    So first create the environment that allows and even encourages this….everything else can flow from there

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  18. Once more, an excellent write-up. You really have a knack for taking a subject and then describing it from all angles to give a balanced view, without hiding your personal opinion.

    In this case, though, there is one element that I would like to add to the discussion. You kinda sorta touch on it, but never make it explicit. So let me do it.

    The no-photography rule in naturist and nudist spaces sends a very mixed signal to the world. On the one hand, almost all nudists / naturists will jump on every chance to explain that we’re not doing something dirty or weird, that nudity should be normalized, that there’s nothing to be ashamed of. But then … we ban cameras and frown on cell phones, to send a clear signal that we actually are ashamed to be exposed as nudists, and for our naked bodies to be seen.

    Now don’t get me wrong. There are many very good reasons for this rule. But that fact does not change the other side of that coin: that we are sending a mixed message. If we really want to convince the world that nudity is normal and nothing to be ashamed off, then we should stop hiding.

    For me personally, it’s a moot point. I have been taking selfies of me naked in private places, and also in public places (nude beach – taking care that no-one else is in the shot). And I have been posting those selfies online. Granted, not in regular places, but then, I also don’t post selfies of me playing snooker (unless I hit a break 50, which has never happened) or acting in a musical (unless I get a two-minute standing ovation for my solo, which also has never happened). So why would I suddenly start posting beach selfies when nothing extraordinary has happened? But I do post my selfies to nudist sites, because I feel that they are relevant there. And yes, I know that they can be copied and posted in other places if anyone has that desire.

    And that’s exactly where the whole discussion becomes complex. Because, sadly, life is never simple, never black and white, never straightforward. For me, a saggy and overweight 60-year old man, the risk of my image making the rounds exists, but it is close to 0. For a perky 23-year old woman, that same risk probably approaches 100. And that means that, while it’s easy for me to say that I see no issue with photography, I really can’t speak on behalf of others.

    So yes. You are right. The modern age thrives on selfies, and when the young generation (or basically anyone at all) wants to share selfies of their great nude time, we should encourage that, not block it. That would also help to achieve what we all try to achieve with our words: the normalization of social and non-sexual nudity. But you are also right that there needs to be rules, because reality is that there such photos can endanger people. Not me, perhaps. But others. And I will not close my eyes to that sad reality.

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    1. We 100% agree. I think we need to let those who wish to promote their own personal images to do so. And those who don’t, certainly don’t have to. We are not advocating sharing any photos of others and have always been against that. We don’t even like it when profiles on social media post photos of other people as there is no consent. They use “normalizing nudity” to get away with it. If you want to normalize nudity through imagery, use your own pictures.

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  20. I’ve taken and posted photos for a long time now. I like to document where I am and share so people know it’s okay to be nude outside. Naturism needs to spread the word that it’s fine and safe and is a lovely way to live.

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