Canon has a really great system of returning gear for repair. If you spend all that money on a camera body or lens, and break it, even out of warranty, hope is not lost, they will typically be willing to repair it at a fraction of the original cost. If it’s under warranty and it was a defect, they will fix it for free. I have found that it is cheaper to just send it in when something breaks instead of getting insurance on anything, hence I only pay when I break something. (And it seems I break something about once a year).
The culprit in this case is a Canon 580 Ex II – which as we see on the APT video conks out during the model shoot. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t.
First step is to go to Canon’s Support Website, this is the link for the USA:
Next, select your product from the drop-down menu’s:
Type in your Serial Number. If its a Camera body its located on the bottom, usually on a black and white metal type sticker. They need the purchase date to know if it’s still under Canon Warranty. If it is, you will need to send a copy of the receipt:
The interesting thing about this is they give you an estimate before the item even arrives. Hmmmm…it essentially tells me that they can fix it in parts and labor for less than whatever the estimate is..
Print up your form, and send to one of the repair addresses. They actually have several but it depends on what you are having repaired. Looks like some specialize in some gear and not in others. 
Michael, besides being extremely aware of where your gear is at all times, and taking all necesarry precautions, why wouldn’t you recommend insurance in case someone steals some of your gear. No matter how many precautions one takes, there is always going to be an opportunity for a thief to get something…
It’s a good point and is something every photographer has to decide. Theft insurance typically requires more coverage for the more gear you have.Over the years I learned the best defense against theft is to be super careful. For me personally, I am ok taking this risk, but I know it isn’t for everyone.
…and the reason being, is I would rather use that same money for other things, (new lens, marketing, etc).
I’m just having to send in my 50D, apparenty the issue is rather common – the main shutter button no working. Thank goodness for the second button on the battery grip 🙂
One really simple way to insure your camera equiptment is to simply put a rider on your home insurance – the cost is not so bad at all. I understand your point though Michael, I am more apt to take the risk too – the insurance option is more for accidental damage for me. I Really don’t like the idea of going to a wedding having a looming thought that someone here is going to steal my equiptment…somehow I don’t think I’d get the best expressions out of people that way :O