Operating a videography business in California comes with unique risks, from expensive equipment to client interactions on-location. To protect against financial loss, most videographers invest in photography and videography business insurance. However, purchasing insurance without fully understanding your needs or the policy details can leave your business exposed. Avoiding common mistakes ensures that your coverage adequately protects your equipment, clients, and operations while meeting legal requirements.

Overlooking Industry-Specific Risks

One of the most common mistakes videographers make is purchasing a generic small business insurance policy that does not address industry-specific exposures. Videography involves high-value cameras, drones, lighting, and audio equipment, all of which can be damaged or stolen. Additionally, on-location shoots at weddings, corporate events, or concerts increase the risk of accidents and property damage. Choosing a policy tailored to photography and videography business insurance ensures that these unique risks are properly covered.

Ignoring Equipment Coverage

Videographers often invest tens of thousands of dollars in cameras, lenses, drones, lighting, and editing equipment. A policy that does not include comprehensive equipment coverage, or only covers equipment while on-premises, leaves your business vulnerable. Many professionals assume that homeowners’ insurance or general liability policies will cover equipment, but these policies typically exclude professional gear used for business purposes. Equipment insurance, including off-site or transit coverage, is essential for protecting your assets.

Underestimating Liability Needs

Another common mistake is underestimating liability coverage limits. General liability insurance protects against third-party claims for bodily injury or property damage. For example, a tripod could tip over and injure a guest, or lighting equipment could damage a client’s property. Videographers often select lower liability limits to reduce premiums, but this can lead to significant out-of-pocket expenses if a serious claim occurs. Choosing adequate liability limits protects both your finances and your professional reputation.

Overlooking Professional Liability

Videographers sometimes neglect professional liability, also known as Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance. This coverage is critical for claims arising from unsatisfactory work, missed footage, or mistakes in editing that cause financial loss to a client. Without professional liability coverage, you could be responsible for costly legal fees or settlements. Videographers should ensure their policy addresses these risks to avoid financial vulnerability.

Failing to Include Cyber Liability Coverage

In California, videographers increasingly rely on digital storage, cloud systems, and online file transfers. This exposes them to risks such as data breaches, ransomware attacks, and cyber theft of client files. Ignoring cyber liability insurance is a common mistake, especially for professionals handling sensitive or high-value content. Cyber liability coverage helps cover data recovery costs, notification expenses, and potential legal claims arising from breaches.

Not Considering Workers’ Compensation

If a videographer employs assistants, camera operators, or editors, California law requires workers’ compensation coverage. Some business owners mistakenly assume that liability insurance covers employee injuries, but this is not the case. Without workers’ compensation, medical costs and lost wages for injured employees fall on the business owner, potentially resulting in substantial financial strain. Ensuring proper workers’ compensation coverage protects both employees and the business.

Skipping Policy Reviews

Videography businesses evolve over time, with new equipment, expanded services, or increased client volume. Many professionals make the mistake of purchasing insurance and not reviewing the policy regularly. Outdated coverage can lead to gaps, underinsured equipment, or insufficient liability limits. Annual policy reviews ensure that coverage reflects the current scope of your business, safeguarding against unexpected exposures.

Choosing the Wrong Insurance Provider

The right insurance provider can make a significant difference in claims handling, customer service, and industry expertise. Videographers sometimes select providers based solely on price or convenience, overlooking experience with photography and videography business insurance. Providers familiar with the unique risks of videography can recommend appropriate coverage, customize limits, and offer guidance on risk management.

Conclusion

Avoiding common mistakes when purchasing insurance is crucial for California videographers. Overlooking industry-specific risks, underestimating liability needs, neglecting equipment or professional liability coverage, ignoring cyber threats, and skipping workers’ compensation can leave your business financially exposed. Regular policy reviews and choosing an experienced insurance provider help ensure comprehensive protection. By carefully selecting and maintaining appropriate photography and videography business insurance, videographers can safeguard their equipment, clients, and operations while focusing on delivering exceptional creative work.

For more information on photography and videography business insurance in California, visit Western Insurance