Instagram deleted photos of singer Madonna with exposed nipples. But apparently, posting photos without clothes is allowed under special conditions.
Madonna criticized Instagram after reposting her photo -- now with her breasts covered in a heart emoji -- and called Instagram double standards. The 63-year-old singer questioned Instagram's non-uniform attitude towards nude photos.
"Nipples for feeding babies. Why are male nipples not considered erotic? Why are female butts never censored everywhere," Madonna protested.
Reporting from CNN, Tuesday (11/30/2021) Meta as Instagram's parent said photos that violate the rules will be deleted, regardless of who posted. But apparently there are photos without clothes that are allowed by Instagram.
Mashable reported that Instagram in February 2021 changed the rules regarding nudity after receiving a recommendation from the Facebook Oversight Board. This is a supervisory board made up of independent panelists who receive input from the public.
Instagram says it generally prohibits nude photos. This includes photos, videos and digital content that shows close up sexual scenes, genitals, naked bottoms. Also banned are photos of women's nipples -- as in the case of Madonna's.
Instagram also removes photos of children who are naked or partially naked. Instagram explains that even though the photos are well-intentioned, they are prone to misuse.
But in the community guide, Instagram made an exception after a recommendation from the Facebook Oversight Board. Topless photos may be posted on Instagram in the context of breastfeeding, childbirth, postpartum and health-related situations (mastectomy, breast cancer campaigns and gender surgery).
Nude photos for the purpose of political protest are also allowed. Nudity, in the form of paintings or sculptures of naked people, may also be posted on Instagram.
For Madonna's case, it seems clear why Instagram removed her. Madonna's exposed nipples were judged to be unrelated to health issues, so they entered the nudity clause which is generally prohibited by Instagram.
