Over 47% of photographers expose themselves!

A recent survey conducted by Photoguard, the online camera insurance provider revealed that over 47% of photographers exposed themselves to unnecessary risk by not having suitable photographic equipment insurance.

These figures are all the more surprising in light of recent figures which show that cameras and video cameras are the second most common items to be stolen when abroad with over 7.2 million Brits suffering theft whilst on holiday*.

Photoguard’s results showed that only 15% used a specialist insurance provider and 38% of photographers surveyed rely on their home contents policy to provide cover for their camera and equipment. However home contents policies may not be the best solution for many photographers. Few offer third party liability insurance, excesses may be high and there may be limits on the value of equipment. Some home contents insurers will also only cover photographic equipment within the home, with others insisting on greater security precautions and restrictions on use.

It seems that the message regarding insurance is hitting home however, 26% of the photographers surveyed thought that they should be insured but hadn’t made arrangements yet. 21% didn’t see the point in insurance, an opinion likely to change should they be the victim of theft in the future.

In light of this information Photoguard warned, “Photographers need to be vigilant when using their camera equipment and not to leave items unattended. If they have insurance, they should know exactly what they are and aren’t covered for and in what circumstances, it may save time and money in the end,” says Giles Rees, Marketing Director for Photoguard.


Notes to editors:
Survey was conducted via an online poll on a leading independent photography site
Respondants chose from 4 answers to the question ‘Is your camera insured?’
4218 votes were placed
15% said they had their camera insured with a specialist provider
38% said they had their camera insured on their home contents policy
26% said they were not insured but really should get cover
21% did not see the point in camera insurance

* Source – Halifax Travel Insurance


Photoguard was launched in 2002 – the third in a line of specialist insurance products from Pavilion following the launch in 1997 of their musical instrument insurance. Part of Pavilion Insurance Management Ltd, Photoguard is based in Coventry, and has over 80% of its customers transacting all aspects of their policy management on line, backed up by a call centre. Other products include bicycle insurance, sat nav insurance, laptop insurance, reenactor insurance and golf insurance.

The full range of Pavilion products can be found at www.pavilioninsurance.com.