In light of the unsettling allegations against a San Antonio photographer, accused of assaulting a client during a photoshoot session, women's safety has been thrust into the local spotlight. KENS 5 reported that 48-year-old John Lill, a local photographer, is now in custody following allegations of his actions, which involved giving alcohol to the victim who then experienced a potential loss of consciousness during a boudoir photography session at his residence.
As the Bexar County Sheriff's Office investigates the distressing matter, Sheriff Javier Salazar advised caution, noting the importance of safety in such intimate settings. "We believe that he at the very least, gave the victim alcohol to the point where she may have become intoxicated," Salazar stated, raising serious concerns over the professional conduct of Lill. According to a FOX San Antonio article, Lill's tactics, such as sending a client's friend away and providing alcohol, could have paved the way for the alleged assault.
Bobbie Jawish, a San Antonio photographer who focuses on women's empowerment and operates Blue Willow Imagery, issued recommendations following the incident. She expressed that ultimately, "The only person to blame is the sexual assaulter." Jawish urged, advised against consuming alcohol during shoots and suggested that potential clients always bring a companion. "I usually have my hair and makeup; glam team with me, so it's not just me," Jawish told KENS 5, emphasizing the importance of not being alone during such sessions.
Oscar McAnally, another local boudoir photographer, echoed the sentiment of maintaining a professional and secure environment. "First of all, the client need to come here feel comfortable with me. And when we talk about her session, you know, how they're going to go, what they're looking for on their session, right? But also for me as a photographer, I want to meet them in person, because I want to make sure that we're a good fit...They need to feel comfortable with me. And again, make sure they understand that they are in charge of their session," McAnally emphasized in a statement obtained by FOX San Antonio. McAnally pointed out red flags such as photographers not tagging models in images or failing to verify ages, suggesting practices such as having a chaperone present during sessions.
With the community shaken by these allegations, Jason Meza from San Antonio's Better Business Bureau stressed the necessity of due diligence. "People are urged to check reputations before they let somebody enter their home," Meza advised, highlighting the indispensable practice of thoroughly screening any photography service prior to engagement.
