How To Use A Trail Camera For Security (Step by Step Guide)

Trail cameras come in a variety of configurations and provide a cheap alternative to security cameras. Thus, You can use them for both indoor and outdoor monitoring.

However, in order to use a trail camera for security purposes, you need to ensure a few things. From selecting the right size to mounting it in the right place, then hiding it to maximize your security, there are many things to follow.

And most importantly, don’t forget to utilize your creativity and find stunning ways to use a trail camera as a security device. For that, we are cordially here to assist you in developing such strategies and will show you how to use a trail camera for security.

Can a Trail Camera Be Used as A Security Camera?

Yes, you can use a trail camera as a security camera. One of the most convenient ways to set up a security camera is to use a trail camera, which many people do not know. And there are many benefits of using a trail camera as a security camera:

• Trail camera saves you money as you don’t need to go for a security camera separately
• easy to set up
• Can capture small moments, even micro-movements
• Have more storage space
• Easy connection with your home Wi-Fi
• Access to footage with trail camera mobile app from anywhere

Where and When to Use Trail Cameras for Security?

There are many places where you can use a trail camera for security. But you have to make sure our suggested places match your home’s situation. If not, you can take ideas and come up with your preferred spot:

• Under the eaves
• Above the front door or back door
• In the backyard garden
• Near your home entrance
• Up on a lamppost

And you need to remember that trail cameras aren’t explicitly built for surveillance purposes. You only should use a trail camera for security under these certain situations:

• When you are on a budget
• When you already have a spare trail camera at your home
• When you need to set up a security camera for the short term or only a few years of usage

How to Use a Trail Camera for Security?

Using a trail camera for security reasons is not a complicated process. All you need to do is ensure a few essential steps. And for your convenience, we have decorated these steps in the best way possible:

Step 1: Select The Right Trail Camera

You need to make sure the trail camera you have selected is small in size. Trail cameras come in different sizes, and a huge one can be very odd to use as a security camera. The ideal size for it should be the one that fits in your hands easily.

Step 2: Look For An Ideal Spot

Before placing a security camera, you need to ensure three things about its spot. First, the spot of the camera should be able to capture your desired area. Second, it should not be easily noticeable. Third, the spot should not hamper your home’s aesthetics.

Some ideal places are under the eaves, in the bushes, above a tree, over the main doors, on top of a lamppost, etc.

Step 3: Mount The Trail Camera

How you mount a trail camera depends on where you want to mount it. In most cases, you will need some common tools, such as a ladder, drill machine, duct tape, wire clips, pins, etc.

Step 4: Camouflage The Trail Camera

It is important to keep your security camera hidden from the public eye. This maximizes home security. And the best thing about a trail camera is they come in ready-made camouflaged forms. You can find one online according to your needs.

Or you can make a DIY camouflage using available materials from your home. The task is not complicated at all. You can make one easily with the help of colors, glue, and some leaves.

What Is the Difference Between a Trail Camera and A Security Camera?

A trail camera is definitely different from a security camera. A security camera is primarily manufactured for surveillance purposes, whereas a trail camera is for wildlife investigation. The key differences between them are:

Trail Cameras Have Better Resolution than Security Cameras

The security camera has a low resolution for storing its footage because it captures it 24/7. So it needs a lot of space. To lower the size of each footage, it records in a low resolution. On the other hand, trail cameras have relatively higher footage.

Trail Camera Captures Motion, but Security Camera Captures All

Trail cameras can only capture motion. It turns on footage storage when it detects motion. So when someone or something comes near your trail camera, it will only record that part. On the contrary, security cameras can capture 24/7.

Trail Cameras Have Fewer Features than Security Cameras

Security cameras have a lot of features that trail cameras do not have. This is because a trail camera is not for constant usage, unlike a security camera. So security cameras have more feasibility when it comes to ensuring timely monitoring.

You May Also Read: How to Hide a Security Camera in a Window?

Pros and Cons of Using a Trail Camera for Security

There are both advantages and disadvantages to using a trail camera as a home security camera. After all, trail cameras are for wildlife monitoring and zoological investigation. If you treat it as a home security camera, it will benefit you in some ways and harm you in others.

Some Tips on Using Trail Camera as Security Camera

When using a trail camera as a home security device, there are a few things you need to follow. Doing so will increase your home security. So, we have gathered some expert suggestions for you:

• Use a trail camera for security only when you are low on budget.
• Select a trail camera that is small in size.
• Do not keep the Wi-Fi far from the trail camera.
• Must use camouflage or other means to hide it from the public.
• Select an ideal spot. Better to situate it in a higher place.

Conclusion

We strongly advise you to utilize a trail camera as a security camera. If you currently have a trail camera in your home and are considering purchasing a security camera, there is no need.

Furthermore, a well-hidden trail camera can improve security and expand your home’s surveillance capabilities. As a result, you will have a greater understanding of the safety of your surroundings.

Finally, placing the trail camera in the proper location is critical since it will be too noticeable otherwise. After all, it will improve your home’s security and safeguard your beloved home.