Backup Plans, Gear, & Insurance for Photographers – Q&A #107

Do you have a backup plan in case your gear goes down at a gig? What if your camera breaks? How do you finish the job?

I believe in having 3 options (plans) to cover yourself on site. That means having at least 3 camera options with you, 3 ways to control light (like 3 flashes), 3 ways to trigger those flashes, etc. They don’t have to all be the same pieces of gear, but just ideas and plans to get you through your gig if something breaks.

The next big piece in preparedness is having equipment insurance, business insurance, etc. We have insurance so we don’t have to fork out big chunks of money to repair or replace these expensive items. One member benefit of Professional Photographers of America is that you get some equipment insurance for free, just for being a member.

Lastly, don’t overlook renting gear. You can rent extra cameras and lights as backup equipment, or if something breaks, to help you while your gear is being repaired.

What are your thoughts? Do you agree? Have you had gear go down on you at a gig?

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