Motion for Summary Judgment Filed in Intimate Image Case against Photographer

At Veridian Legal, we believe no one should have their privacy exploited without their say-so. That’s why we’re excited to share a major update in Vincent Landwehrle v. Tom Bianchi et al. (Supreme Court, New York County Index No. 155395/2020). Our attorneys, Daniel Szalkiewicz and Cali Madia, have filed a Motion for Summary Judgment against a photographer, aiming to hold him accountable for using our client’s intimate images in his book 63 E 9th Street without permission. This move is a step toward justice for the plaintiff.

The Case: A Private Past Made Public

The story starts in the early 1980s, when the plaintiff and photographer shared an intimate relationship. During that time, the photographer, then pivoting from law to art, snapped photos of the plaintiff, capturing him in revealing moments. Nearly 40 years later, in 2019, ten of these images appeared in the photographer’s book 63 E 9th Street, published without plaintiff’s consent. The photographer admits he included them, identifying the plaintiff by his nickname with other identifying details.

The plaintiff swears he never agreed to this. The photographer claims he messaged someone he thought was the plaintiff on Facebook in 2018 about the photos, getting a reply of “I don’t remember you…” but no permission to publish images. The plaintiff denies having that profile. The defendant testified he didn’t secure a release from our client, leaning on what he calls his “rights as an artist.” He’s even suggested our client should feel honored to be featured, brushing off the severe anxiety and anguish our client alleges this caused. Our Motion for Summary Judgment, drafted by Veridian Legal’s Daniel Szalkiewicz and Cali Madia, argues the facts are clear: the photographer shared these images without consent, violating New Jersey’s nonconsensual pornography law (N.J.S.A. 2A:58D-1) and the plaintiff’s privacy. We’re asking the court to rule on liability, setting up a damages phase to address the harm.

Why It Hits Home

This isn’t just about our client—it’s about the right to control your own image. The defendant’s book, sold in thousands and boosted to millions online, turned private moments into a public display.

Veridian Legal: Your Privacy, Our Priority

At Veridian Legal, we’re all about standing up for those who’ve been wronged. Daniel Szalkiewicz and Cali Madia’s work on this motion showcases our commitment to tackling tough cases with skill and grit. No matter who’s on the other side—a famous artist or a big corporation—we’re here to fight for you.

Next Steps: Justice in Sight

As we wait for the court’s ruling, Veridian Legal stays focused on securing a win for our client. This Motion for Summary Judgment is about more than one case—it’s a stand for accountability and respect. Keep an eye out for updates as we push forward, ready to defend our client’s rights and yours.

Has someone shared your personal images without your okay? You deserve a team that gets it. Contact Veridian Legal for a confidential chat.