Safe Space Policy

Effective Date: August 15, 2025

At Duane Furlong Studios, we are committed to creating a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for all clients during their photography sessions. This Safe Space Policy outlines our commitment to respect, professionalism, and the comfort of every individual who works with us.

OuCommitment

We believe that everyone deserves to feel comfortable, respected, and valued during their photography experience. Regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, religion, disability, body type, or personal background, all clients will be treated with dignity and professionalism.

What This Means for Your Session

Respectful Communication: We use inclusive language and will ask for your preferred pronouns. We listen to your concerns and respect your boundaries at all times.

Body Positivity: We celebrate all body types and work to ensure you feel confident and comfortable during your session. We will never make comments about your appearance that could be construed as negative or judgmental.

Comfortable Environment: Our studio is designed to be a judgment-free zone where you can express yourself authentically. We maintain appropriate temperature, lighting, and privacy during sessions.

Professional Boundaries: We maintain clear professional boundaries throughout your session. Any physical direction needed for posing will be communicated clearly and respectfully, with your consent.

Wardrobe and Styling: We provide guidance on wardrobe choices that will photograph well while respecting your personal style and comfort level. We will never pressure you to wear anything that makes you uncomfortable.

Client Rights and Comfort

Right to Speak Up: You have the right to voice any concerns or discomfort during your session. We encourage open communication and will address any issues immediately.

Right to Breaks: You may request breaks at any time during your session for any reason.

Right to Privacy: We respect your privacy and will not share personal information discussed during your session.

Accommodation Requests: We welcome requests for accommodations to ensure your comfort, including accessibility needs, cultural considerations, or personal preferences.

Studio Guidelines

Respectful Behavior: All interactions in our studio must be respectful and professional. Discriminatory language, harassment, or inappropriate behavior will not be tolerated.

Consent: We will always ask for your consent before making any adjustments to posing, lighting, or other session elements that may affect your comfort.

Confidentiality: What happens in your session stays confidential. We respect your privacy and personal information.

Clean and Safe Environment: We maintain a clean, organized, and safe studio space for all clients.

Addressing Concerns

If at any point you feel uncomfortable, unsafe, or believe this policy has been violated:

During Your Session:

Please speak up immediately
We will address the concern right away
Your session can be paused or rescheduled if needed

After Your Session:

Contact us directly at duane@duanefurlongstudios.com
We will investigate any concerns promptly and thoroughly
We are committed to resolving issues and improving our services

Diversity and Inclusion

We actively work to:

Create marketing materials that represent diverse communities
Continuously educate ourselves on inclusive practices
Partner with vendors and professionals who share our values
Adapt our services to meet the needs of all clients

Accessibility

We strive to make our services accessible to everyone:

Our studio is wheelchair accessible
We can accommodate various mobility needs
We welcome service animals
We can provide additional time or breaks as needed
Please contact us in advance to discuss any specific accessibility requirements

Zero Tolerance Policy

Duane Furlong Studios has zero tolerance for:

Discrimination or harassment of any kind
Inappropriate comments about appearance, identity, or personal characteristics
Unwanted physical contact
Disrespectful or unprofessional behavior
Violation of client privacy or confidentiality

Violation of this policy may result in immediate termination of services without refund.

Continuous Improvement

We are committed to continuously improving our safe space practices:

We regularly review and update this policy
We seek feedback from clients about their experiences
We participate in ongoing education about inclusive practices
We welcome suggestions for making our studio more welcoming and inclusive

Training and Standards

All team members and contractors working with Duane Furlong Studios are trained on:

Inclusive communication practices
Respectful client interaction
Professional boundary maintenance
Cultural sensitivity
This Safe Space Policy

Contact Information

If you have questions about this policy, need to discuss accommodations, or want to report a concern:

Duane Furlong Studios
8601 E Palo Verde Dr
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
Phone: (480) 201-7204
Email: duane@duanefurlongstudios.com

Our Promise

We promise to maintain the highest standards of professionalism, respect, and inclusivity in all our client interactions. Your comfort, safety, and satisfaction are our top priorities, and we are committed to creating an environment where you can feel confident, relaxed, and authentically yourself.

This policy reflects our core values and our commitment to serving all clients with dignity and respect. We believe that great photography happens when clients feel comfortable, valued, and free to express their authentic selves.

This Safe Space Policy is reviewed annually and updated as needed to ensure it reflects current best practices and our ongoing commitment to creating an inclusive environment for all clients.