Top tips for keeping your gear safe
Even with adequate insurance, you still need to look after your photographic equipment. Here are some ideas to help you reduce the risks to your gear.
• Always use a neck strap with your camera. It will save the camera from damage if it slips out of your hands. A camera should only fall into a river or the sea if you fall in with it!
• Never let the equipment out of your sight in a public place. If you need to put a camera bag on the ground as you take a shot, always keep it in front of you, preferably with your foot on the strap.
• If you sit at a pavement cafe, avoid tables next to the road. Thieves can snatch your camera and be away before you realise what's happening. Choose a table closer to the cafe for safety.
• Remember to pick up all your camera equipment after shooting!
• Do not use the boot of your car as a camera case, returning to swap lenses or accessories. If thieves are watching, they will see that you have valuable goods and clear the boot while you are away for a few minutes.
• Always take cameras and lenses into a hotel if you are staying overnight. Many hotels offer safe deposit boxes for valuables, either in your room or at the reception area.
• When using a multi-storey car park, find a space in the middle of the floor, away from pedestrian exits. Thieves prefer to target cars near to staircases where they can escape quickly if challenged.
• Do not cover your camera bags with badges which shout the name of your camera. Some photographers have stopped using camera bags because they are obvious targets for thieves. A rucksack or holdall can be safer, but make sure there is enough padding to protect the camera and lenses. Use padded lens pouches, or wrap lenses in soft cloths.
• Always report any loss or theft to the local police. If you are travelling, report the loss at your next stop. Record the details of the police station, together with the name of the police officer and the police case number (if any). This information may be required when you make a claim.
• Remember to update your insurance policy whenever you add to your camera system, or change cameras, lenses or accessories. You are only covered for the items listed on the policy.