Security cameras help prevent crime — even their mere presence is a strong deterrent. But security cameras offer a host of other benefits you probably haven’t thought of. From technological backdoors to simple lifehacks, here’s a look at the many benefits and tricks security cameras provide.
Slash Insurance Premiums
A house with surveillance cameras is safer than a house without. Wouldn’t it make sense that insurance companies would give you a break on your premiums since you’ve gone the extra mile at home safety? Not only that, but public records of these systems at your house benefit your insurance company as well, as it guards them against fraudulent insurance claims. It isn’t often insurers and insurees get such a simple win-win.
Motion Detection
Some surveillance cameras record every minute of every day. While this is preferable by some, others find the amount of data storage needed for this much video footage an unwanted expense. The motion detection setting on your security cameras lets them hibernate when there is no motion in their sights. When your cameras do detect motion, they will automatically record whatever is in their view. This saves storage space and makes the video the cameras do take more navigable if a review is needed.
Time Lapse Videos
Most people think of security cameras as utilitarian tools, but they can also be used for fun. Since security cameras are on often and for a long time, the footage they take can be used for some pretty awesome time lapse videos. In the past, people have used footage from security cameras for time lapses of skyscraper construction, city tours and more. However, you will need video editing software that has an option that selects the number of seconds, minutes or hours, you want between each frame.
Remote Surveillance
Nobody has time for the hundreds of hours of footage security cameras take. You want to see what’s going on at specific times. Many security cameras come with a mobile app, so you can check in whenever you need. This is especially handy for check-ins on elderly parents or mischievous teens and children.
Two-Way Audio
Along this same vein, many surveillance cameras have two-way audio, which means you can hear what people talk about while on camera, and you can use the app to talk through the camera’s speaker. This is good for easy communication in case of emergency, but also has a more light-hearted application. Unsuspecting friends or family will be surprised when they hear your voice speaking from above.
Work and Play
Security cameras have a variety of features and benefits. From practical use at home and work for safety reasons, as well as cool passion projects such as time lapses, cameras can be used for a variety of projects. They can cut down on insurance premiums substantially, by way of a deterrent factor for burglars. They also have the added benefit of keeping an eye on the kids while they are home alone or letting those with elderly parents check in through voice and video with two-way audio. With so many uses and benefits, security cameras are a no-brainer, especially since they pay for themselves in the long run.
