Do I need insurance for my first paid freelance photography job in the UK?
Asked 2/20/2018
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2 answers
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I’ve done informal photography work for organisations before, but now a community organisation wants to book me for a higher-profile event and pay me. I’m in the UK and would be working as a freelancer rather than an employee. If I’m being paid, what insurance should I consider? I’ve heard of public liability and professional indemnity insurance, but I’m not sure what applies for event photography.
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
8y ago
2 Answers
27
Yes. Presuming you're working as freelancer. Without a doubt. Regardless of how much you're being paid, or if you're not being paid (such as if you work with models). If you're employed rather than freelance then the company's existing insurances will probably protect you, but make sure to check.
Professional indemnity insurance protects you from any claims of inadequate service to the client.
Public liability insurance should be purchased as well in case someone injures themself and it's considered your fault. Such as if someone trips over your camera bag, or a lightstand falls on them and they try to sue.
These insurances will provide cover for the legal costs and expenses in your defence as well as compensation payable if they win any payout. They can be picked up alongside equipment insurance (Photoguard and Aaduki are two commonly seen names).
At the same time I recommend getting your camera gear insured as well if it isn't already. Depending on the gig of course, the last thing you want is someone spilling a drink and you have to foot the repair bill or buy new equipment to replace it.
Originally by user55814. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user55814
8y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
You may not legally need insurance just because you’re being paid, but for freelance event photography it’s generally a very good idea.
The main types mentioned are:
- public liability: covers claims if someone is injured or property is damaged and it’s alleged your gear or actions caused it, such as a trip over a camera bag or a light stand falling
- professional indemnity: covers claims from the client if they say your service was inadequate or you failed to deliver
- equipment cover: protects your own camera kit
- employer’s liability: only relevant if you have staff
If you’re freelance, you’re usually responsible for your own liability. If you were working as an employee, the organisation’s insurance might cover you, but you should confirm that.
How important insurance is depends on the job: if you’re simply moving around taking candid shots, the risk is lower; if you’re using lighting, stands, or other equipment around the public, public liability becomes much more important. If a failed shoot would seriously affect the client, professional indemnity is also worth considering.
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