Do You Need Infrared Security Cameras?

Infrared security cameras are a must if you will be monitoring any areas that are in low light or total darkness. The infrared security camera has infrared lighting built into the camera which makes it possible to capture a good image in low light or even total darkness. Infrared lighting works great in many situations because it lights up an area without anyone knowing since infrared light can not be seen by the naked eye.

Some areas where infrared cameras are needed are anywhere outside at night, (driveway, doors and windows etc.) baby's room or any room at home or at a business where the lights are turned out at times, anywhere where someone thinks they can get away with something in the dark, etc. Hunters even use them to track wildlife activity by monitoring certain areas with an infrared game camera. Keep in mind that Infrared lights will illuminate only up to a certain distance depending on model. Determine how far away from the camera you need to film and make sure that area is within the range of the infrared illuminators, otherwise you will only capture poor quality images.

How Do They Work?

Infrared cameras have infrared lights placed around the outer edge of a cameras lens. This lighting illuminates any dark area, even total darkness allowing images to be seen by the camera lens that are not seen by the naked eye. The images recorded in darkness by the infrared camera will be in black and white only - color recording with infrared light is not possible yet. Be aware that cameras listed as "Day/Night cameras" are different from infrared security cameras. They work fine and can record color in low light situations but this type of security camera doesn't use infrared lighting and is not able to work in total darkness.

Other Things to Consider.

If you already have regular cameras in place but need infrared lighting you do not need to purchase all new security cameras. It is possible to buy infrared illuminators separately and place them near the camera to illuminate the viewing area. There are outdoor infrared cameras built specifically for outdoor conditions. See Outdoor Cameras.

Some infrared security cameras are made with motion detectors that record only when there is activity. This allows you to conserve on your power source and creates less footage to view.
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