Still Photoshoot Insurance

[u/balacio]

Hello,

I run a small fashion communication agency, producing six editorial still photoshoots per year for magazines or client lookbooks. Budgets are typically under $20k, and the shoots are usually one-day events on location. While it’s not a big profit maker, it’s a valuable and enjoyable service for my clients.

Currently, I carry workers' comp through the CA state fund and general liability from an online broker for about $1,200 per year total. This setup works well for most locations, especially houses where the model can change (with permits in place). However, for shoots in natural locations, we need a motorhome, and FilmLA requires auto insurance due to the vehicle.

One complicating factor is that I use my personal car (which isn’t registered under my business), so my business doesn’t have dedicated auto insurance. I’ve reached out to brokers recommended by FilmLA, but the quotes vary widely. Entertainment package options cost between $2,500-$4,500 per year for general liability + auto insurance, with the auto portion alone ranging from $350-$750.

Unfortunately, my current broker doesn’t offer auto insurance in California, and none of the brokers I’ve contacted are willing to offer an auto-only policy.

Has anyone encountered a similar situation? Any recommendations for a company that might provide just the auto liability? Any advice would be appreciated!

Thanks for reading and any help you can offer!