Insurance for Filmmakers: What You Need to Know About Coverage, Risk, and Equipment Claims - 042
Most creatives dream of filming in remote places, working with global brands, and living a life of freedom behind the lens, but few understand the risks and protections that come with it. As Associate Vice President at Front Row Insurance, David McLeish shares how filmmakers and photographers can protect their gear, their business, and their livelihood when unexpected events happen. Alongside host Marshal Chupa, they break down the realities of insurance in creative work, from liability waivers to international coverage
🎙️ Episode Sponsor: Lorne Lapham Sales & Rentals
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Key Topics Discussed
Why most filmmakers misunderstand what insurance actually covers and how to avoid costly assumptions
How to handle high-risk shoots like underwater filming, climbing, or stunts, and what insurers need to know in advance
Practical steps for gear rental, deal memos, and certificates of insurance when working with production companies or directly with brands
The importance of liability waivers when shooting with athletes or in dangerous environments
What international coverage looks like and how to protect footage and equipment while traveling
Episode Highlights
4:00 – Broker vs Insurer Why knowing the difference matters when making a claim.
12:00 – High-Risk Shoots Underwater, vehicles, or extreme sports must be disclosed or risk voiding coverage.
19:00 – Stunts vs Adventure Insurers often treat risky outdoor shoots as stunts, which changes coverage.
26:00 – Liability Waivers Signed waivers reduce your exposure and improve insurability.
29:00 – International Coverage Most policies are Canada/US only unless you add worldwide protection.
33:00 – Reshoot Coverage Scripted reshoots may be covered. Portfolio or passion projects are not.
41:00 – Gear Rental Your deal memo should make production responsible for your kit.
1:19:00 – Direct-to-Client Covering friends’ gear requires written agreements. Without them, it is not insured.
🔗 CONNECT WITH FRONT ROW INSURANCE
🖥️ Website | www.frontrowinsurance.com
📧Email: mcleish@frontrowinsurance.com
📸 Instagram | @ frontrowinsurance
🔗 CONNECT WITH MARSHAL
📸 Instagram | @marshalchupa
🟠 Substack | Substack Article
💻 Website | www.marshalchupa.com
🔗 LinkedIn | Marshal Chupa on LinkedIn
🎙 ABOUT THE PODCAST
This podcast is all about helping emerging cinematographers, photographers, and directors navigate the challenges of making a life and a living behind the lens. From workflow to personal growth, creative vision to marketing, finances to production—every episode is packed with a wide range of topics to support visual storytellers in their pursuit of building a business and growing a career they are proud of.
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📱GET IN TOUCH
You can also drop me a DM instagram @marshalchupa or email marshal@marshalchupa.com
