Archive

videographer insurance

Videographer Insurance: What Is It and Why Do Videographers Need It?

Being a videographer isn’t just about capturing beautiful moments—it’s about being ready for anything. Filming a high-energy concert, an intimate wedding, or an adrenaline-packed sports event requires skill, precision, and some serious equipment. But what happens when things go wrong? What if your camera takes a dive into the ocean during a beach wedding shoot? Or a guest at an event trips over your tripod? That’s where videographer insurance comes in.

The Realities of Life Behind the Lens

Videographers don’t just show up and press record. They carry thousands of dollars in equipment, navigate unpredictable environments, and work under tight deadlines. From filming corporate ads to creating viral social media content, their work is everywhere—but so are the risks. Without the right insurance, one accident or theft could set your business back significantly.

What Does Videographer Insurance Cover?

videographer insurance

Equipment Protection: Cameras, lenses, drones, stabilizers—your gear is your lifeline. But it’s also expensive and vulnerable. Whether it’s a lens getting knocked off a table or your entire camera bag being stolen from a venue, equipment insurance ensures full replacement value with no per-item limit, keeping your business running smoothly.

General Liability Coverage: Filming in high-traffic environments comes with risks. If a guest trips over your cables at a corporate event, or a light stand accidentally damages a venue’s flooring, general liability insurance covers medical expenses and property damage claims, protecting you from costly lawsuits.

Drone Coverage: Aerial shots can take your projects to the next level, but they also introduce risks. If your drone malfunctions and crashes into a car—or worse, a person—you could be liable for damages. Commercial drone insurance covers both equipment damage and liability claims, ensuring safe and legal operation.

When Do Videographers Need Insurance the Most?

  • Destination Shoots: Traveling with gear? Flights, baggage handling, and unfamiliar locations increase the chances of damage or theft.
  • Live Events: Weddings, concerts, and corporate gatherings involve unpredictable crowds and tight spaces where accidents happen.
  • Outdoor Filming: Weather, terrain, and public settings create unique risks for your equipment and liability.
  • Client Contracts: Many venues and clients require videographers to have liability coverage before they’ll hire them.

Expanding Coverage for Film Producers

videographer insurance

Videographers who specialize in documentaries, short films, or educational content may require more comprehensive coverage. If you have employees or work with a larger production team, additional insurance options can provide protection for production liability, equipment, and even workers’ compensation. Expanded coverage safeguards your projects from unexpected disruptions.

For more information on specialized production insurance, call RVAN at 1-800-364-2433 or visit RVNAProductionInsurance.com. Film insurance for producers is available to Quote and Purchase online instantly.

Popular Questions About Videographer Insurance

1. What is videographer insurance?

RVNA might call their insurance Photographer Insurance but it’s customized for both photographers and videographers. RVNA photographer insurance is designed to protect videographers from equipment loss, liability claims, and unexpected accidents during filming including accidental damage to equipment, or property damage when capture video on location.

2. Why do videographers need insurance?

Videographers work in unpredictable environments, making coverage essential for protecting gear, and avoiding liability claims. Many venues or even houses where a videographer has been hired to capture footage at an event often require proof of liability insurance from a videographer before they can work on site. RVNA Pro Photographer Insurance is also for videographers. Annual policies start as low as $99/year and include unlimited events with free additional insureds. Videographers can add additional insureds onto their policy in minutes using RVNA’s online system. Certificates of Insurance (COIs) can be emailed directly to a client or venue from within our system.

3. Does videographer insurance cover drones?

No. Drone Insurance is a specialty insurance dedicated to just insuring drones and UAV operators. RVNA offer drone insurance with optional coverages for property and liability to protect your drones and people who are injured by your drone or if you accidentally damage someone else’s property while flying your drone. Drone insurance is available to quote and buy online right from this website.

4. How much does videographer insurance cost?

The cost varies based on the insurance coverage limits you select, your business size, and how much coverage you purchase, for example how much your camera and equipment is insured for, but affordable plans are available for both independent videographers and production teams.

5. What’s included in videographer insurance?

All coverages with RVNA are optional including general liability coverage for bodily injury and property damage with coverage up to $6 million and unlimited COIs, equipment insurance with replacement value coverage, no per-item limit, and coverage extends worldwide. Other optional coverages include accident medical coverage, and employee crime coverage.

Final Thoughts

Videography is an exciting, fast-paced industry, but it comes with risks. The right videographer insurance keeps you covered so you can focus on creating stunning visuals, not worrying about accidents or lost equipment. Don’t let an unexpected mishap cut your career short—protect your business today.

Need coverage? Get an Instant Quote and Buy Videographer Insurance Online or call 1-800-364-2433 to speak with an RVNA insurance expert about how to protect your business today.

Read More →
RVNA
February 12, 2025
studio insurance

Protecting Your Studio: Which Insurance Portrait Photographers Really Need

As a portrait and studio photographer, your equipment and space are essential to your business. From high-end cameras to flash kits, LED panels, backdrops, scrims, and office equipment, you invest heavily in creating the perfect studio environment. But have you ever thought about what would happen if your equipment were to be damaged, stolen, or destroyed in a fire or flood? Without proper insurance, these events could cause a significant financial strain or even bring your business to a standstill. Here’s why comprehensive gear and equipment insurance is essential for every portrait and studio photographer.

The Risks for Portrait and Studio Photographers

In-studio photography might seem like a controlled environment compared to outdoor shoots, but it comes with its own set of risks:

1. Accidental Damage

Equipment in a studio can be accidentally knocked over, tripped on, or damaged during a shoot. Flash kits can be fragile, backdrops can tear, and monitors or hard drives can suffer damage from an unexpected fall. Insurance covers the cost of repairs or replacements, ensuring that a mishap won’t leave you without essential gear.

2. Theft

Your studio is a treasure trove of valuable equipment. Even with security measures in place, theft can occur, either from a break-in or during a location shoot when the studio is temporarily left unattended. Insurance coverage for theft protects your investment, allowing you to quickly replace stolen items and continue your business operations.

3. Severe Weather and Natural Disasters

Your studio might be indoors, but it isn’t immune to natural disasters. Floods, earthquakes, fires, and severe storms can wreak havoc on your space and equipment. Without insurance, the cost of repairing flood-damaged equipment, replacing broken LED panels, or recovering from fire damage could be overwhelming.

4. Office Equipment

Your business runs on more than just cameras and lights. Computers, monitors, printers, and other office equipment are crucial for editing, marketing, and running your studio smoothly. These items also need protection in case of damage or loss, which is why including them in your insurance policy is a smart move.

What Comprehensive Equipment Insurance Covers

  • Accidental Damage: RVNA Pro Photographer Insurance covers the cost to repair or replace accidentally damaged equipment, including photography equipment and office equipment.
  • Theft Protection: Equipment insurance also provides coverage if your studio is broken into or gear is stolen during a location shoot. This includes everything from cameras and flash kits to computers and monitors, allowing you to replace stolen items and keep your business running.
  • Damage from Natural Disasters: Photography Equipment insurance covers damage caused by natural events, including floods, earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, and fires. Whether your studio space suffers from water damage during a hurricane or your gear is affected by an electrical fire, your policy can help cover repair or replacement costs.
  • Replacement Cost Coverage: High-end studio equipment and computers are a significant investment. RVNA Pro Photographers Insurance policies offer replacement cost coverage, ensuring you can replace damaged or stolen items with new, comparable models instead of receiving only the depreciated value of the gear.
  • No Per-Item Limit: Some insurance policies impose per-item limits on coverage, but RVNA allows photographers to choose an overall coverage limit that fits their needs. This flexibility means that even high-value items, like studio lights or computer systems, can be fully covered.

Tips for Protecting Your Studio Gear

While having comprehensive equipment insurance is crucial, here are some additional steps you can take to safeguard your gear:

  1. Invest in Secure Storage: Use lockable storage units, cabinets, and safes for smaller items like cameras and lenses. For lighting and backdrop equipment, secure storage solutions reduce the risk of accidental damage.
  2. Install Security Systems: If you operate a home studio or have a dedicated space, install a security system with alarms and cameras to deter theft. Insurance providers often look favorably on studios with enhanced security measures.
  3. Backup Data Regularly: Your computer equipment is vital for editing and storing images. Regularly back up your data to a secure, cloud-based service to protect against data loss in case of a disaster or hardware failure.
  4. Use Surge Protectors: Protect computers, monitors, and other electronic equipment from power surges, which can occur during storms. Surge protectors can help minimize damage, though insurance may cover some losses if a power surge causes irreparable harm.
  5. Maintain an Inventory: While RVNA does not require you to keep a detailed inventory of all your studio equipment, it might be a good idea to record serial numbers and store or scan receipts. This will make it easier if you need to file a claim.

Start the New Year with Confidence

As a portrait and studio photographer, your work relies on the tools you use daily. Comprehensive gear and equipment insurance not only protects these tools but also safeguards the business you’ve built. By investing in insurance, you ensure that your studio is ready to handle unexpected events—whether it’s a clumsy accident, a break-in, or a natural disaster.

Take the time now to review your equipment and make sure you have the coverage you need to keep your studio thriving, no matter what challenges the future holds. With the right insurance, you can focus on creating stunning portraits, knowing that your gear is well-protected. Read more about RVNA’s Insurance for Portrait Photographers.

Not sure what coverages you need? Our representatives located in California, Texas, and Ohio are experts in Photographer insurance and can guide you through the online application or handle the purchase for you. Call 1-800-364-2433 M-F from 5:30AM to 5:00PM Pacific Time.

Quote & Buy Online Now
Read More →
RVNA
December 26, 2024

Camera & Equipment Insurance: The Best Year-End Gear Protection for Photographers

As the year comes to a close, it’s time for photographers to reflect on their work, prepare for the upcoming year, and, importantly, safeguard their most valuable assets—their camera gear. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting, your equipment is your lifeline, and it’s essential to make sure it’s well protected. This is where year-end camera equipment insurance comes into play, offering the best safeguard for your gear as you head into another busy year.

Here’s what you need to know about the best year-end gear protection and why now is the perfect time to secure your camera and equipment insurance.

Why Year-End is the Ideal Time to Insure Your Gear

The end of the year is the perfect opportunity to take stock of your equipment. Many photographers receive new gear as holiday gifts or invest in new tools to upgrade their kit for the upcoming season. With new equipment in your arsenal, it’s crucial to ensure that everything—from your latest camera body to your favorite lenses and accessories—is covered.

Additionally, year-end often brings a period of downtime, giving you the chance to review your current insurance policy (or get one if you haven’t yet) and update it to reflect your latest investments. This proactive approach ensures that you start the new year fully protected, avoiding the risk of unforeseen expenses that could arise from theft, damage, or accidents.

What Camera Equipment Insurance Covers

When selecting camera equipment insurance, it’s essential to understand what kind of protection you’re getting. The best policies offer comprehensive coverage, including:

  • Accidental Damage: In the hustle of a busy shoot, accidents happen. Whether you drop a lens while changing locations or your camera slips from your grasp, equipment insurance covers the cost of repairs or replacements.
  • Theft: Gear theft is an unfortunate reality for photographers, especially during travel or while on location. Insurance covers the cost of stolen equipment, allowing you to quickly replace it and continue working without a major financial setback.
  • Damage from Natural Disasters: Hurricanes, floods, and other natural disasters can wreak havoc on your gear. Camera equipment insurance extends protection to cover damages caused by such unexpected events, ensuring that you’re not left footing the bill for accidental damage.
  • Worldwide Coverage: If you’re a photographer who travels internationally, ensure your policy includes worldwide coverage (RVNA does). This way, you’re protected whether you’re shooting a destination wedding in the Maldives or a fashion shoot in Paris.
  • Rented Gear: Many photographers rent equipment for special projects. The best insurance policies extend coverage to rented gear (RVNA does), protecting you from unexpected costs if rented equipment is damaged or stolen while in your possession.
  • Replacement Cost Coverage: A top-tier insurance policy will cover the replacement cost of your gear (RVNA does), not just its depreciated value. This means if your camera model has been discontinued, the policy pays for the cost of a new, comparable model.

Tips for Selecting the Best Year-End Gear Insurance

To make sure your gear is fully protected as you head into the new year, consider these tips when selecting your equipment insurance:

  • Review Your Current Policy: If you already have equipment insurance, review your policy to ensure it covers all the new gear you’ve acquired this year. Update your coverage limits if necessary to account for any high-value items you’ve added to your kit.
  • Assess Your Coverage Needs: Determine what kind of photography work you’ll be doing in the upcoming year. If you’re planning to travel or take on more location-based shoots, opt for insurance that covers you nationwide and/or worldwide. If you’ll be renting gear more frequently, ensure your policy includes rented equipment protection.
  • Choose the Right Coverage Limit: Make a comprehensive list of your equipment and estimate its total value. Select a coverage limit that reflects this amount to guarantee you’re fully protected in case of loss or damage.
  • Look for No Per-Item Limit: The best policies don’t impose a per-item limit, allowing you to insure all your gear, including high-value items, under one policy.
  • Consider the Claims Process: Choose an insurance provider known for its responsive claims process. Year-end is a great time to read reviews and research providers that offer streamlined, hassle-free claims services, so you’re not left waiting if you need to file a claim. RVNA offers 24/7 Claims reporting.

Starting the New Year with Peace of Mind

As you prepare to ring in the new year, don’t let the worry of potential gear mishaps hang over your head. With comprehensive camera equipment insurance, you can head into the busy season with confidence, knowing that your most valuable tools are fully protected.

Year-end is the perfect time to review and update your insurance, ensuring that every camera, lens, tripod, and accessory in your kit is covered. From accidental drops to unexpected thefts, having the right policy in place means you can focus on what truly matters—capturing stunning images and growing your photography business.

For tailored insurance guidance based on your photography specialization, explore our content designed specifically for your needs:

Buy Photographer Insurance from $99/year
Read More →
RVNA
December 19, 2024
subcontracting photographer insurance

Photographers: Here’s What You Need to Know About Subcontracting

As you’ve probably noticed, the photography business is staffed by plenty of subcontracting arrangements. However, if a session results in a lawsuit, your exposure and risk can greatly vary depending on your subcontracting status. There are two important rules to keep in mind.

Rule 1: From an insurance point of view, an employed photographer is one that must be supplied with equipment in order to perform the photo shoot at the venue. An independent contractor photographer is one that has his or her own equipment, and does not have to be supplied with equipment by the insured photographer. Insurance coverage only protects the insured photographer and its employees. It will not provide defense or judgment coverage to a subcontractor or independent contractor.

Rule 2: When purchasing insurance, an accurate photographer count is essential. If a claim occurs and it is discovered that there are more photographers working for you than reported on the policy, the insurance company will deny coverage based on misreporting of photographers, and you’ll have no protection.

Below are two examples of these rules in action

Rule 1 example – Subcontractor loses her business
A-One Photography had a family portrait session scheduled for Thursday night. When owner Jon Andersen received a request to work a wedding at the same time, he hired subcontractor Angela Pederson Photography to work on his behalf, covering the wedding under the A-One Photography company brand.

While Angela was working the wedding, she went out onto the floor to snap some spontaneous shots. Unfortunately, an elderly guest doing the electric slide didn’t see her and knocked into her. The guest ultimately fell to the ground and broke his hip. He subsequently sued A-One Photography and Angela Pederson Photography for damages of $350,000. The court determined that it was a contributory loss. A-One Photography was responsible for $125,000 because the company had hired Angela Pederson Photography to work on its behalf. Angela Pederson Photography was held liable for $225,000 of the loss.

A-One Photography’s liability insurance policy provided defense and judgment coverage for A-One Photography, but not Angela Pederson Photography as she was a subcontractor and should have had her own liability insurance policy. Furthermore, A-One Photography had purchased liability insurance for only one photographer, so even if Angela had exclusively worked for A-One Photography as an employee, the coverage wouldn’t apply due to inaccurate reporting. As a subcontractor, Angela had assumed she would be protected by A-One Photography’s policy. Because she had no liability insurance, Angela became personally responsible for her portion of the loss. Needless to say, it was financially devastating.

Rule 2 example – Help has unintended consequences
Frank Ryan’s photography business was booming. To help meet demand, Frank subcontracted Vern Miller to work for his company exclusively. Frank thought it was the ideal situation – he could grow without hiring and paying payroll taxes.

One night, Frank and Vern both had family portrait sessions. They knew Vern’s event was going to be lively – he was shooting a large family reunion. All was going according to plan until one of the aunts tripped on a camera cord and injured her back. She slipped a couple of discs and was out of work for several months.

Although Vern had worked the event, Frank was sued for $300,000 because Vern was working on behalf of Frank’s business. In the eyes of the insurer, the exclusive subcontracting arrangement made Vern an employee. During the claim investigation, it was discovered that Frank’s business had two photographers when he had only purchased coverage for one. The insurance carrier denied coverage on the basis of mis-reporting the correct number of photographers. In the end, it was determined there was no coverage and Frank’s business had to pay the $300,000, which sent him and his business into a financial tail spin.

How can you avoid these costly situations?

  1. If you work as a subcontractor, secure your own liability insurance. In the first scenario, Angela could have avoided a $225,000 bill if she had her own liability policy.
  2. If you hire subcontractors, obtain a Certificate of Insurance from the subcontractor as proof of liability coverage. A liability limit of $1,000,000 or more is recommended.
  3. Regardless of whether you have subcontractors or employees, make sure you purchase insurance to cover the correct number of photographers. If you don’t, your insurance may not protect you as intended.

Need coverage for your business?

The RVNA Professional Photographer’s Insurance Program, exclusively available through R.V. Nuccio and Associates provides everything you need in one convenient place: Liability Plus, Property Plus, and Crime Plus Insurance. Underwritten by one of the largest property and casualty insurance groups of the world, this tailored package provides specialized “A” rated protection. Endorsed by the National Alliance of Special Event Planners, R.V. Nuccio and Associates is the only online nationwide insurance source for photographers offering the most customized protection at the most competitive rates.

Note: These examples are based on real claims scenarios. However, the details have been fictionalized to protect the privacy of those involved.

Read More →
RVNA
December 1, 2013