Doing it in the dark: new Darkroom Etiquette Guide launched

A new guide to using darkrooms – spaces in clubs, venues or parties where sex can happen – is published today by The Love Tank, in collaboration with Dr Jamie Hakim from King's College London. Based on interviews with people who use, or who aspire to use darkrooms, the guide sets out how these spaces can be safer, more enjoyable and consensual.

Dr Benjamin Weil, Head of Research at The Love Tank and co-author of the guide, says:

“As we researched the guide, some people told us that they worried darkrooms might not be safe places to have sex. People we spoke to with experience of darkrooms almost overwhelmingly said their experiences we were positive — but they weren’t always sure about the “rules” of darkrooms and wanted to understand them better”.

Dr Will Nutland, Director of The Love Tank and co-author of the guide, says:

“Because of their long history in queer spaces, darkrooms have an established ‘etiquette’. Yet, lots of darkroom etiquette is non-verbal and often isn’t written down. The guide provides a place where those rules-of-engagement can be passed across generations and, in some cases, renewed and rewritten.”

Dr Jamie Hakim of King's College London, who undertook the research that informed the guide says:

“Our research shows that more people, of all genders and sexualities, are using sex spaces and darkrooms. Using input from people who use darkrooms, the guide provides tips to help navigate these spaces safely, whilst looking after other people at the same time."

The guide includes information on negotiating consent, dealing with rejection, sexual health, harm reduction, and darkroom aftercare.

The guide is available at www.queerhealth.info/darkroom