Secure the Shot - Why risk assessments matter

In this, the sixth edition of Secure the Shot, we’re diving into a topic that’s often overlooked but is absolutely essential; risk assessments. Whether you’re photographing a wedding in a historic venue, tracking wildlife in unpredictable terrain or managing a studio shoot with complex lighting setups, every shoot carries its own set of risks. Despite the risks, many photographers skip one simple tool that could help protect their equipment, their business and their reputation too, and that’s the risk assessment.

What Is a risk assessment?

Simply put, a risk assessment should be thought of as your shoot’s safety blueprint. It’s a structured way to identify potential hazards, evaluate how likely and severe those risks might be to you, your employees and others around you and outlines the steps you’ll take to mitigate anything that could cause loss, harm or injury. This isn’t just paperwork, it’s a proactive strategy that helps you stay safe and, ultimately, professional.

For photographers, this could mean checking out the terrain before a landscape shoot, planning for weather changes at outdoor events, managing cables and lighting in the studio or ensuring your equipment is safely transported. It’s about anticipating problems before they happen.

Why do Insurers companies care?

Insurers are increasingly asking for risk assessments before agreeing to cover certain shoots, and for good reason.

A documented assessment shows you’ve taken reasonable precautions to reduce liability and helps insurers feel confident about covering you. If something does go wrong, having that paperwork can support your claim and show you were pro-active and acted responsibly. In fact, some policies actually require a risk assessment for high-risk environments like remote locations, aerial shoots or working with animals. Without one, you could face denied claims or even a cancellation of coverage, depending on the policy you have in force.

Common Risks

Photographers face a wide range of hazards. Environmental dangers like slippery rocks or extreme weather, the risk of equipment theft or damage (especially in public spaces) and legal issues such as shooting without permission on private property or restricted areas all come into play. Being aware of these risks is the first step toward managing them.

How do I create one?

You don’t need to be a health and safety expert to create a valuable risk assessment. A simple checklist or form will work, describing the shoot and location, identifying potential hazards and considering who might be affected and how. Once identified, outline your control measures. This could include emergency procedures and contact details, or what steps you’ll take should something occur to keep your shoot on track.

Templates are available from many sources, such as the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) or any photographic trade associations, institutions or guilds that you may be a member of.

Risk assessments aren’t just for big productions, they’re a smart habit for every photographer and something that should be done as standard. They show professionalism, reduce liability and can be the key to unlocking insurance coverage for the more troublesome shoots you have.

Whether you’re just starting out or have years behind the lens, making risk assessments part of your workflow is a move worth making. Stay safe, stay prepared and secure your shot.