Laura Poitras had a romantic relationship with computer security researcher, activist, and journalist
Jacob Appelbaum, after the filming phase was over for her documentary film project about WikiLeaks which resulted in the feature
Risk (2016). She often mentions Appelbaum in her book "Astro Noise" using the affectionate form 'Jake'. The opening photo in "Astro Noise" shows Poitras stretched out on a daybed in the sunlight and is credited to Appelbaum.