Workers’ Compensation Insurance (commonly termed “workers’ comp”) is a type of coverage that protects employees and employers when injuries or illnesses occur on the job. Workers in the videography, photography and drone service business can be exposed to risk on location shoots, at studios or traveling with equipment. The insurance helps cover medical costs, rehabilitation, lost earnings and legal penalties that could arise from accidents in the workplace.

General liability shields you against third-party claims (i.e. a client slips and falls), while workers’ compensation covers your own crew. So, if an assistant slips over cables on a shoot, or pulls a muscle carrying heavy equipment, workers’ comp covers their medical care and support without the firm having to shoulder the entire financial load. If you have an employee or more, you must have one in many states, such as California.
Workers’ compensation is an add-on to other policies you may already have, such as general liability or a business owner’s policy. It’s a crucial component of a comprehensive insurance program for photographers and videographers, providing peace of mind that your crew is covered in the event of the unforeseen.

For more on liability coverage, check our general liability page: General Liability Insurance California