Softcore pornography

Softcore pornography or softcore porn is commercial still photography, film, imagery, or even audio that has a pornographic or erotic component but is less sexually graphic or intrusive than hardcore pornography, defined by a lack of sexual penetration or other sexual activity. It typically contains nude or semi-nude actors involved in suggestive poses or scenes, and is intended to be sexually arousing and aesthetically beautiful.

The distinction between softcore pornography and erotic photography, or erotic art such as Vargas girl pin-ups, is largely a matter of debate. When the subject is naked, the image must be differentiated from nude art, and photos belong within the broader category of nude photography.