The Dumbest Thing a Photographer Can Do

Okay, we could argue if this is the dumbest thing a photographer can do, but regardless, it’s certainly in the top five! Sadly, it’s not a new topic.

Every year at every convention there’s at least one story about somebody who lost their gear and wasn’t adequately insured. So, I’m taking one more shot at reminding you of one of the dumbest mistakes any photographer can make, being under-insured.

A few years ago at WPPI, an attendee had all her camera gear disappear. A year before that a photographer had a couple of lenses “walk” out of his camera bag. I’ve heard story after story of cameras left out at a wedding venue disappearing. We live in a world that doesn’t always work the way it should, but we can at least ease the pain and sleep better at night knowing we’ve got the right insurance.

Newbies! Your home insurance doesn’t cover your gear when it’s being used for commercial purposes. This would include equipment left in your car in your own driveway if your vehicle was broken into. (Yes, that’s already happened to at least one photographer I know.)

Seasoned Veterans! When was the last time you updated your policy? Throughout the year you may have added new lenses, camera bodies, a computer, printer, etc. At the very least, check with your insurance agent and make sure your policy is up to date.

We’re coming up to the holiday season, and many of you are going to photographing various events. It’s so easy to lose track of your gear at a busy venue. So, BEFORE you hit the road for your next series of conventions or just the next local assignment, check to make sure your insurance is up to date!

Let’s scratch lost or stolen gear off the list of potentially painful events in your life!