Cheri was a pioneering erotica magazine that emphasized editorial consent and professionalism in the adult entertainment industry. It sought to create an atmosphere where models felt comfortable, valued, and protected during photo shoots while also creating high-quality content.
Founded in the late 1980s, Cheri was known for its boundary-pushing photoshoots that combined beauty and sensuality with artistry. Its creators understood that many aspects of the adult industry were taboo at the time, but they believed it deserved more attention and celebration than it had received before. They wanted to change attitudes about nudity and sexuality by showcasing them in tasteful ways.
One key aspect of this approach was maintaining strict standards regarding model consent and professionalism. The team behind Cheri recognized that models often faced exploitation in the industry, with photographers taking advantage of their vulnerability for personal gain. They worked hard to avoid this by respecting models' boundaries, giving them agency over what they would do and how they would be portrayed. They made sure everyone involved in a shoot knew what was expected from each other, including clear communication around payment, scheduling, and any risks associated with certain activities. This commitment to mutual understanding created a safe space where models could feel confident expressing themselves without fear or anxiety.
Another important factor was highlighting the collaborative nature of shoots, which helped set industry standards. Cheri celebrated both women and men who embraced their bodies and enjoyed being photographed, recognizing that sex work could be empowering as well as objectifying. Models were never treated like objects; instead, they were viewed as partners in the creation process. This collaborative spirit helped build trust between all parties involved and fostered stronger relationships among participants.
Overall, Cheri's emphasis on editorial consent and professionalism contributed significantly to changing perceptions about the erotica industry. Its commitment to ethical practices helped pave the way for other publications to follow suit, creating safer working environments for models while also setting higher creative standards for content production. Today, many people credit Cheri's example with helping transform the adult entertainment world into one where collaboration and mutual respect are key values.