Instagram is taking a hard-line approach with their popular photo-sharing app. Last week, the company updated its community guidelines, releasing a longer set of rules with a stronger tone. Although the breast-feeding women around the world may be rejoicing, as the announcement revealed they are no longer censoring breast-feeding photos, the social media platform is cracking down on any room for harassment or pornography.
The new rule states that “women actively breast-feeding are allowed,” in addition to ladies who are showing “photos of post-mastectomy scarring.” The site added that “nudity in photos of paintings and sculptures is OK, too.” However, artistic nudity is off the table. “We know that there are times when people might want to share nude images that are artistic or creative in nature, but for a variety of reasons, we don’t allow nudity on Instagram,” read a statement released on Friday April 17.
“This includes photos, videos and some digitally-created content that show sexual intercourse, genitals, and close-ups of fully-nude buttocks.”
“We want Instagram to continue to be an authentic and safe place for inspiration and expression. Help us foster this community. Post only your own photos and videos and always follow the law. Respect everyone on Instagram, don’t spam people or post nudity,” continued the statement.
Since the Facebook-owned company launched in 2010, it has received countless complaints regarding its decency guidelines, particularly for its longstanding decision against sharing snaps of topless women. A campaign popularized by celebrities like Chelsea Handler and Miley Cyrus to “free the nipple,” began late last summer but was short-lived as Instagram was not budging on their rules and regulations.
Earlier this month, Victoria’s Secret model, Doutzen Krous posted a black-and-white image of herself pumping breast milk. She wrote, “Daily routine! I’m promoting breastfeeding, it’s the best for your baby when possible! #breastfeeding #breastpump #breastfeedingmom #breastfeedingawareness.”
Just a year ago, Instagram altered its user policies to allow the sharing of breast-feeding pics, which stars including Olivia Wilde, Gisele Bündchen and Miranda Kerr supported by proudly posting photos of themselves breast-feeding their children.
Lastly, Instagram reminds users to only share photos or videos that they took themselves or have permission to re-post.
