How To Use Trail Cameras As A Security Camera

Trail cameras have long been used to monitor wildlife, but have you ever thought of using it as a security camera? Trail cameras have been developed to not only function as a tool to trail wildlife but also as a useful device to capture burglars within your property. The same way a hunter hunts for wild animals using sharp and original footage of trail cameras is the same way you can use it to capture culprits.

Trail cameras designed for security purposes are of various sizes and shapes, and almost all of them are capable of capturing still photos and recording audio and videos. Others like stealth cameras can snap pictures in total darkness without flashes. For this reasons, trail cameras can be an essential tool to catch trespassers and burglars.

So, how do you catch these culprits using trail cameras? Below are a few tips on how to make great use of your trail camera.

Identify your suspect’s motive and the targeted location

Identifying the suspect and their motives are important as it helps you understand the type of trail camera to use. If your suspect is a malicious stranger or a trespasser, then a trail camera with no flash is suitable for you. Due to its invisible flash, the suspect will never suspect that they are being trailed.

Some trail cameras have unique features that can capture a specific region of interest by detecting movements using sensitive and fast trigger speed that captures and snaps every action and movement the suspect makes. If you are using it on urbanized areas, then you will need to place the trail camera at a high location that can easily go undetected.

Choose the Right Trail Camera

Trail cameras are of different types with different capabilities. It is important to choose the best trail camera for the specific purpose. If you have a problem with trespassers, then you need a cellular trail camera or trail cameras with no flash. You could also opt for the modern trail cameras that send you notifications and captured pictures directly to your phone via Bluetooth or a Wi-Fi connection.

The wireless trail cameras help you monitor your surrounding without the need of checking the camera often. You could also try the license plate camera. License Plate Cameras are another type of trail cameras with unique features that help you monitor any suspicious cars that park near your yard at night. These cameras take pictures of the car including their plate cards.

Mount the Camera Up

Since you have all the reasons to capture the culprit and have identified the right camera for the job, you need to set it up. But how do you set up the trail camera so that you get best out of it for the intended purpose? Here is how to go about it.

• You will first need to test the camera to ensure it functions properly. Check the batteries and other functions like the picture quality.
• Ensure you are familiar with the operating system of the camera to properly use it.
•  Now, look for an ideal location to place your camera. You can mount it on the roof, on top a tree at the backyard, somewhere that it will easily go unnoticed.
• Next, set the camera to capture images at your preferred time intervals. You could also put the camera on and set the sensor to take photos whenever it detects suspicious movements.
• Remember your camera should be concealed. You need to find ways to make it invisible to intruders. You could for instance cover it with leaves if you decide to place it on a tree branch. Trees with vines are an important spot to place your camera since the vines cover your camera up concealing it perfectly.
• Also, place your camera 9-10 feet above the ground. It should be beyond eye level since burglars are likely to skim around to check for possible cameras around.

Conclusion

Hunting thieves have never been this easy. Trail cameras play a critical role in detecting burglars, trespassers, and thieves. It helps reduce crime in your area by capturing actual footage. You only need to identify the right type of camera and activate your spying skills. If you properly conceal your trail camera, hunting culprits will be easy as you protect your home from burglars.