Many people don’t know that game cameras  ( aka  trail cameras) can be used for your home security needs. However, they can be a great choice in some instances. In fact, the same aspects that make a trail camera great for photographing wildlife and scouting deer also make it great for home security.

How They Work

When used for hunting, game cameras are mounted to a tree. When a deer or other animal comes into the area, the camera’s motion sensors direct it to take photo and video. They are time stamped, so you’ll know when game comes to the area. Many of them can also be configured to send the pictures and videos to your smartphone in real time.

Game Cameras for Home Security

These features also make game  cameras an excellent budget-friendly option for home security. They can be used for indoor security, but they are particularly  suited for outdoor home security. If you want basic security and only want to see when something is going on, game security cameras are certainly a valid option. Game cameras are also naturally designed for  outdoor use, so they will stand up to the elements as well.

Features to Consider

There are a few factors to consider when purchasing a trail camera for home security.

• No glow

• HD

• Motion sensor range

• Videos

• Cellular capability

Trail camera features, explained:

No Glow

No glow  cameras  use infrared flash to capture photos and videos in no or low light. This  keeps light from shining and alerting any trespassers. If you want a covert camera, a no glow trail camera is a good option.

HD

HD video will give you a clearer picture, particularly at night. It’s recommended  that you use a  camera that has at least 720p.

Motion Sensor Range

Different cameras will detect motion at different ranges. The range you need here will depend on your needs based on the area and how many cameras you have. The angle is another consideration: A camera with a 90-degree angle, for example, will be able to detect and record things 90 degrees from it within the given range.

Video

Not all  game cameras  take videos. Most of the ones that do will take 10 to 90 seconds of video whenever  motion is detected. The ones that just take pictures are generally less expensive, but video can be invaluable in the case of a security issue.

You’ll also want to consider whether you would like video and audio. Some trail cameras include video and audio, while some simply include video.

Cellular Capability

Some trail cameras also have the ability to send photos and videos to your phone. If you’d like to be able to monitor your property, you’ll want to choose a camera that can be configured to send photos and videos to your phone.

While a trail camera can be useful for giving you line-of-sight into what’s going on outside your home, for true peace of mind consider a professionally monitored system. When your home is protected by professional monitoring, you know someone is there to help dispatch emergency personnel in the event of an alarm event. To learn more about professionally-monitored, adjustable home security, contact Brinks Home™ today.

Lauren Slade is a Dallas-based writer and editor.