Simon Scott, 44, from Aberdeen, was jailed for 20 months after being found guilty of offences against five victims.

Scott – known as ‘Sid’ – targeted the victims on social media, offering free photography sessions.

A jury at Aberdeen Sheriff Court heard that Scott induced and manipulated some of the victims into removing items of clothing or changing into revealing outfits. Prosecutors led evidence that Scott sexually assaulted the young women – most of whom were teenagers – while pretending to be taking photos or adjusting their poses.

He was given a 20 month sentence and his name was added to the sex offenders register for 10 years. Alison McKenzie, procurator fiscal for Grampian, Highland and Islands, said: “Simon Scott callously manipulated girls and young women for his own shameful purposes.

“The victims who agreed to photo shoots believed he was a professional they could trust. He was far from that. I commend all the victims who came forward to report their experiences. Their courage in doing so has helped us put an end to this man’s offending.

“I would also urge any other victims of similar offending to speak out. COPFS will do everything in our power to ensure perpetrators are brought to justice.”