One of the most significant advantages of the film industry is its focus on creativity. From shooting a scene at the base of a volcano to diving deep into the ocean, the only limit on production is the team’s imagination.
However, finding the insurance coverage to support these ventures can become challenging, as basic insurance for film production might not protect your team adequately for the shots you hope to collect.
If you are considering a nature-based shoot, look deeper into the insurance that best fits your needs. Many types of equipment insurance do not necessarily include protections for the exclusive risks nature can pose to your team.
Here are some recommendations for specialized film production insurance for nature-based shoots, from what risks your team might face to the best insurance to limit the financial burden of these risks.
How Nature-Based Shoots Change Insurance
Shooting a production either fully or partially in natural environments can revitalize a stale production and bring immense visual interest to the final product. However, this type of filming is also full of risk:
- Equipment – Even the sturdiest film equipment is not invulnerable to the many hazards of the great outdoors. From rain that ruins electrical components to dirt and debris that scratches camera lenses or wears down the joints in a boom arm, there are plenty of issues that only a natural environment poses.
- Location – Shooting in a remote vista can provide a stunning backdrop for any scene. Still, it can also damage equipment and automobiles. Such distant natural scenery often requires travel on poorly maintained or barely present roads, which can damage vehicles and equipment as they jostle and slide around.
- Training – The best filming teams might have decades of experience getting that perfect shot, creating crisp audio, or producing the most convincing props. Still, these skills do not protect the team from the hazards of the natural world. Most people lack the training to deal safely with nature, from wild animal encounters to safe terrain navigation on cliffs and rivers.
- Exceptions – Many insurance policies include exceptions for some filming tasks that are invaluable for nature shoots. For instance, equipment policies rarely include drone coverage, and some may actively exclude it due to the higher risk of losing a drone in a remote location.
The Best Insurance for Nature Shoots
Every nature-based shoot is distinctive, so studios must carefully consider their insurance options based on the project they aim to tackle. However, the following insurance policies are generally a good place to start.
Equipment Insurance
One of the most integral types of coverage for nature shoots is equipment insurance, which is usually more expansive. Establish that the shoot’s most expensive equipment is protected, as particular filming tools may be required for nature-based productions. These rarer types of equipment might include the aforementioned drones, underwater cameras, and more.
Pollution Insurance
Teams must strive to be careful with their behaviors while enjoying their time in nature. Even the most thoughtful productions may leave behind accidental trash, or vehicles transporting people and equipment might experience oil leaks and other issues.
All of these behaviors can pollute the environment, causing damage for which the studio may be liable, including the fees for remediation and any associated fines.
Auto Insurance
Because of the potential for unmaintained roads on the way to a nature shoot, it is smart for any production to invest in strong auto insurance for its vehicles. This can address costly fixes such as frame repairs or tire replacement should the shoot get off track due to vehicle issues, keeping the production supplied.
Workers’ Compensation
Every film studio should have workers’ compensation insurance (in fact, it is often mandatory). This coverage is essential for nature-based shoots. Workers are at a greater risk of harm when shooting in uncontrolled locations.
Those who are injured or even killed due to outdoor accidents should be protected with complete financial coverage to address their medical bills, rehabilitation costs, time off work, or family expenses.
Share Nature With Your Viewers Without Risking Your Film
Films that include shots of sprawling forests or towering mountains can instill a sense of awe and wonder that is impossible with a greenscreen or indoor shoot. However, getting these types of shots comes with its own set of risks, many of which can cause significant financial harm to a production’s bottom line.
Contact MFE Insurance today to discuss the coverages that are most suitable for your nature-based shoot and learn from film insurance professionals how to avoid coverage gaps.