In this new article for my blog, I want to reveal some curiosities and behind-the-scenes facts from the world of hardcore film sets—details and stories that most people have probably never read before. As the most well-known adult film actress in the world, I’ve decided to share these secrets bit by bit, while I wait for the right time to make my autobiographical film (which, by the way, I am writing myself—with many surprising and emotional chapters that have never been told before). The world of adult film is still thriving, and there’s always something new to discover.
What really happens during the making of a porn movie? If you’re curious and want to know the truth, keep reading.
Hygiene Is Everything
One of the most important (and least talked about) aspects of a porn set is hygiene. Before any scene begins, all actors and actresses must take special care with their personal cleanliness. This is not just a rule, it’s a necessity.
Personally, I always used scented creams and coconut-based oils. Their sensual fragrances weren’t just for my own pleasure—they created a much more inviting atmosphere on set. There’s nothing true about those who claim that hygiene isn’t important. In fact, bad body odor can ruin a scene and is very unpleasant for everyone involved.
Camera Angles and Tricks
Another crucial element on a porn set is the camera. It’s not just about filming—how and where the camera is placed changes everything. The camera uses special lenses to enlarge and highlight what, in real life, might look smaller or less impressive. During explicit scenes, the camera is often positioned very close to the actors’ bodies, especially the genitals, to make the act seem deeper and more exciting for the viewer.
Angles are chosen carefully so that everything looks visually perfect. This is one of the biggest differences between “real life” sex and sex on camera: everything is done for the benefit of the lens, not just the people involved.
The Myth of Duration
Many people imagine that sex scenes are shot in one continuous take. The reality is very different. Scenes are broken up, stopped and started again, sometimes dozens of times. You can spot this when, for example, actors appear sweaty from intense activity, and then, a moment later, look perfectly dry—there was a pause, and the scene was restarted.
A day on set can last up to 10 hours. It’s physically demanding, and the breaks between scenes are essential to let the performers rest, recover, and get back into the right mindset. After all the editing, a final scene that appears to last 30 minutes may have taken an entire day to shoot.
Filming the Finale First
Here’s something most people don’t know: the “climax” or “money shot” is usually filmed first. The male performer is at his best—fresh, not tired, not worn out by multiple takes. Shooting the finale at the start means everyone gets the best possible result. If it were filmed at the end, fatigue and loss of excitement could make it much harder for the actor to deliver.
Special Effects on Set
Another backstage secret is the use of special effects to enhance what’s seen on camera. To increase the quantity of “liquid” in a scene, things like gels or sweet almond milk are used. This is simply because the eye wants to see something convincing, and real life sometimes needs a little help to look more dramatic on screen.
Real Excitement or Acting?
One thing I’m proud of: on set, I always felt real excitement. I never faked it. But this isn’t true for everyone—many actresses have to “act” much more than people imagine.
Sex between two people in private is about mutual pleasure and discovery, but in porn everything is focused on the camera. Every move, every position, is chosen to show the best possible view of the genitals and make the act look as good as possible for the audience.
Unnatural Positions for the Camera
If I ever get to direct my own film (and if there are any producers reading, feel free to contact me!), I want to show how much effort goes into creating the perfect image. To get the right shots, actors have to perform in positions no one would ever choose in real life. It’s not always pleasurable for them—but it’s essential for the viewer’s experience.
I’ve invented many creative, original positions on set—my own version of the “Cicciolina Kamasutra.” I believe these tricks are a must for anyone who wants to stand out as a performer or producer.
Breaking the Double Standard
I want to make an appeal to the industry: we need to end all forms of sexism on set, especially among male actors. Here’s what I mean: if a man shoots gay scenes, his male colleagues often look down on him. But a woman can perform with men and women without anyone calling her “strange.” This double standard shouldn’t exist in porn.
For me, porn is not about gender—it’s about love for sex in all its forms. In my career, I’ve never made distinctions based on gender. Sexuality should be open, free, and without prejudice.
The End of Part 1
This is just the first part of my behind-the-scenes blog series on the world of porn. There’s much more to come—new stories, secrets, and experiences that I look forward to sharing with you.
With love,
Cicciolina
