The narrative hinges on two relationships. First, Violet’s cynical relationship with aging photographer E.J. Bellocq (Keith Carradine), a real-life historical figure known for his haunting portraits of Storyville prostitutes. Bellocq initially photographs Violet as an object of study but eventually buys her virginity and marries her. The film concludes ambiguously with a pregnant Violet leaving Bellocq to confront an uncertain future.