The images were made by children or teenagers photographing or filming each other or as selfies, without adults present or coercing, by unwittingly imitating adult pornographic or nude images or … In the united states, child pornography is illegal under federal law and in all states and is punishable by up to life imprisonment and fines of up to $250,000. Department of justice defines csam, or child pornography, as any sexually explicit images or videos involving a minor (children and teens under 18 years old).