Construction Camera Buyer’s Guide

Introduction

Construction cameras have become commonplace on the modern jobsite. Cameras are used to improve security, enforce policies and procedures, and provide visual project documentation of everything that happens on a project, helping managers stay on schedule and under budget. They can improve collaboration between crews, managers, and other key stakeholders while reducing the need to travel to the jobsite.

 Advanced camera solutions that feature time-lapse photography and live video streaming can also improve marketing efforts. Additionally, visual documentation provides the transparency investors need and can be used as justification for delays caused by weather or other factors.

 However, selecting the right construction camera for your complex projects is no easy task. With so many options and vendors, it can be challenging to determine which cameras provide the features and functionality you need. This Buyer’s Guide will equip you with the information you need to evaluate available solutions and understand what types of cameras will be a good fit for your jobsites.

Construction Camera Basics

Different cameras serve different purposes and have different price points. It’s important to understand the basics of construction cameras before you choose products for your project. Some companies offer all features for one price while other companies take a more à la carte approach and start with a basic offering, then offer add-ons for additional fees.

What is a Construction Camera?

A construction camera is any camera with features specifically designed for use on construction jobsites. Importantly, construction cameras typically come with an array of services that are integrated with the camera such as sharing and collaboration features, as well as integrations with project management software. A robust camera solution combines the functionalities of cameras, still photography, and security surveillance, while enabling teams to stream live video from the camera over the internet from different locations. Construction cameras designed for outdoor use are rugged and weather-proof, as well. 

Camera Components

• Lens: This is the “eye” of the camera. It determines the camera’s optical quality, clarity, field of view, and more.
• Processor: This allows for camera data to be stored as photos and videos. Advanced processors can also live stream the video footage.
• Network Interface: This enables the camera to connect to a network. Cellular is the most common connection for construction cameras, but WiFi and Ethernet options are also available.
• Power System: Solar power with rechargeable batteries is the most popular option for construction cameras. Other options include 110V and batteries that can occasionally be swapped out to recharge.
• Camera Housing: Enclosures that are rugged, weatherproof, and waterproof protect the other components from environmental damage. Some housings even include heaters or fans to help cameras operate in extreme temperatures.
• Mounting Hardware: Correctly positioning the camera is key to capturing the view you want. There are mounting options to meet a variety of unique jobsite needs.

Types of Cameras

Fixed-Position Cameras

Fixed-position cameras offer the highest resolutions and widest viewing angles. Their singular position allows for ultra-stable time-lapses and, often, lower prices. These cameras do not move, which makes them ideal for functions such as access control at entryways and focusing security footage on key areas. 

Pan-Tilt-Zoom Cameras

PTZ cameras are robotic and can be moved remotely via a web interface. The camera can pan 360°, enabling the viewer to explore large jobsites that would not be visible from a fixed-position camera’s field of view. In addition to robotic movement controls, PTZ cameras offer true optical zoom capabilities. They have the ability to capture time-lapse footage of multiple areas simultaneously, as well as store PTZ coordinates so the camera can adjust to preset views quickly. Another bonus of PTZ cameras is panoramic photography and time-lapses.

Interior Cameras

Interior construction cameras are smaller and lighter than outdoor all-weather cameras, which make them easier to mount and move. Though they are smaller in size, they should still offer all the same features as their larger, all weather counterparts. 

Solar-Powered Cameras

Many jobsites do not have readily available power onsite. Solar-powered camera systems can be used when there is no power available, drawing power from the sun and storing it to an onboard battery.

Camera Applications

Live Viewing

In addition to boosting security, real-time video monitoring via live streaming enables project managers to check in on crews, subcontractors, deliveries, weather conditions, and more to make sure work is being done properly and efficiently. When crews know project managers can monitor sites remotely in real-time or review footage later, it motivates them to stay on task, adhere to corporate policies and safety measures, and be accountable for their work. 

Project Management and Forecasting

Predicting what will happen on the jobsite throughout the many phases of a large, complex construction project is challenging. Weather delays, late deliveries, and labor shortages can wreak havoc on project budgets and schedules. Real-time insight into jobsite activity enables project managers to track daily progress and gain insight into possible delays or adjust schedules if certain project phases take longer than expected. Managers can also anticipate when certain project phases will be complete with better accuracy and ramp up or thin out crews accordingly. Many advanced camera solutions integrate with popular project management software platforms, so workers and managers can upload and share videos and photos to create a visual history of project progress, keeping everyone informed. 

Documentation

Photos and videos enable accurate documentation from start to finish, which can be reviewed and used later to forecast and plan for new projects. Managers can watch each phase sequentially and have a better understanding of what occurred during the project. A full photo history of a project is helpful in security investigations, and justifying weather delays, as well as marketing and bidding for new projects. 

Overlay Comparison

With the ability to compare two images from a time-lapse, you can conveniently track the progress of your project over time. By simply clicking and dragging a slider, you can easily visualize and analyze the changes and advancements made over the course of the time-lapse.

Communication and Collaboration

Through integrations with project management software, construction cameras improve collaboration between everyone involved in a construction project, from workers on the jobsite to remote stakeholders. Photos and video footage from construction cameras can be shared in real-time via email, text, or through project management software to keep all parties in the loop throughout the construction process. For example, workers can send photos with notes and markups to explain status updates or requests. Project managers can view images remotely to monitor jobsite conditions and keep building owners and investors informed, enabling better and faster decision-making.

Security Features

Cameras should offer 24/7 continuous security recordings with live video streaming for the ability to monitor the jobsite remotely. Advanced solutions offer high-definition video to capture detailed video evidence and a visual history of security incidents. Some solutions provide motion alerts to notify project managers and/or authorities when the camera’s motion sensor detects movement so they can take immediate action. Another important feature that assists with security concerns is built-in infrared (IR) technology. Advanced camera systems with IR can ensure clear footage even in total darkness, as well as help motion detection capabilities be more accurate. A construction camera with IR is key to having actionable security footage in the case of an incident. In addition to these capabilities, the mere presence of cameras provides a visual deterrent, as would-be thieves are less likely to steal from a jobsite if they know the site is being watched by cameras. 

Monitored Security

For jobsites that need extra security, human monitoring ensures that threats are verified and addressed in real time. This can help reduce losses on your jobsite and false alarms, providing you with increased peace of mind. When choosing a provider for this service, it’s important to look for ones that meet the highest industry standards. The best providers are UL listed and 5 Diamond Certified by The Monitoring Association.

Marketing & Investor Relations

Visuals are powerful marketing tools — they’ve been proven to attract up to 300% more traffic to websites, and they can be used to nurture leads and help convert prospects to customers. Construction firms that use video are more likely to rank higher in search, capture the attention of prospective customers, and compel them to click through to learn more. Videos and photos can be used in marketing materials and on websites to showcase large, high-profile projects, create excitement around new construction, make social media posts stand out, and build hype around upcoming events. 

Time-Lapsing

In addition to videos and photos, time-lapse footage from construction cameras provides a versatile marketing tool for promoting your firm’s differentiators to prospects and investors, raising awareness of your brand, generating interest and excitement around projects, and demonstrating your firm’s capabilities. Some additional marketing uses for time-lapse videos include: 

• Embedding them on your website to bring a page to life and increase the time viewers spend on the page. 
• Building anticipation for a coming event or the completion of a large project. 
• Augmenting customer testimonials or case studies you create to market your firm.

 In today’s digital world, effective marketing requires a lot of high-quality photos and videos, which can get expensive. Using photos, video footage, and time-lapses from your construction cameras eliminates the cost and production time of hiring a camera crew while providing timely, authentic visuals of your firm’s excellent work.

Features & Functionality

Before choosing a camera solution for your construction project, it’s important to understand the various features and functionalities they offer. 

Below are different types of construction cameras and their unique features and capabilities. This is the “hardware” piece of your construction camera. Later, we will get into the features and services piece of the camera.

Fixed-Position Cameras

Fixed-position cameras produce incredibly high resolution images with a wide horizontal field of view. A good fixed-position construction camera provides the following features: 

• Ultra-stable time-lapsing 
• Digital zoom 
• Optional integrated IR technology 
• Operational temperatures that support your climate

Pan-Tilt-Zoom Cameras

PTZ cameras provide user-controlled 360° movement and powerful optical zoom. Look for solutions that provide:

• 1080p or 4K resolution 
• The ability to pan a full 360°
• Panoramic images and time-lapses 
• Optical zoom of between 10X and 32X 
• Optional integrated IR technology 
• Operational temperatures that support your climate

Interior Cameras

Interior construction cameras should provide the following key features: 

• 1080p or 4K resolution 
• Cellular 4G LTE or Ethernet configuration 
• Operational temperatures that support your climate

Interior cameras are designed to be smaller and lighter compared to their outdoor counterparts. They are not typically rated for outdoor use, but find widespread popularity in interior remodels and retrofits on restaurants, retail stores, and warehouses.

Solar-Powered Options

Solar-powered cameras draw their power from the sun, and many solutions are eligible for a Federal Energy Tax Credit (ITC) that can be claimed using Form 3468. Solar options should provide you with the following: 

• Compatible with your choice of fixed-position or PTZ cameras
• An intelligent battery management system that detects battery issues before they impact the performance of the camera
•  Battery preservation mode for optimal battery performance 
• Corrosion-resistant and rust-proof enclosure 
• Industrial-grade components

Camera Deployment Options

Mobile Camera Trailers

Mobile camera trailers are the go-to solution for jobsites that are remote or have mounting difficulties. With a solar-powered trailer, you have all the power, connectivity, and mounting infrastructure needed to achieve your documentation goals. 

• Adaptable mounting 
• Eco-friendly power 
• Easy to move 
• Battery backup system

Solar Skids

Solar skids are an all-in-one camera mounting and power station that offers a simple solution for remote locations, parking lots, and many other jobsites. Designed with mobility in mind, solar skids can easily be lifted using a forklift to any desired location. It doesn’t have to be uninstalled or reassembled at the next jobsite, which means it offers a reduced deployment time. When you’re ready for your next project or even just the next camera angle, simply move your solar skid to the next spot.

Software Functionality

Today’s construction cameras come enabled with software apps that allow you to access live viewing, control the cameras remotely, mark up and share photos, and access many other camera features. 

Make sure the camera dashboard is intuitive and easy to use. Be sure to ask your vendor if the platform is accessible on different kinds of devices, such as a desktop, laptop, tablet, or mobile phone. It’s worth noting that some vendors may require you to download software. Additionally, some vendors may require a physical connection of a device to the camera to download footage or images. It’s also important to determine if all of the camera’s features are available as part of the standard offering. Some vendors offer select features on all cameras and charge a fee for access to advanced features. Others only offer all features, but only on certain camera models (and sometimes for a higher price). To get the best bang for your buck, go with a vendor that offers all features for one standard price. 

Important features to look for include:

• A single dashboard to monitor projects and cameras 
• Live jobsite viewing and ability to view live footage from anywhere
• View live and historical weather conditions 
• Unlimited, custom time-lapse capabilities 
• Unlimited media storage and simultaneous users 
• 24/7 monitoring and AI-powered motion alerts 
• Analytics of camera usage
• Image overlay, comparison, and markup tools 
• User Interface built with customer experience in mind

Optional Add-on Services

 TrueLook offers a range of powerful add-on services designed to enhance and improve your jobsite documentation. 

From the convenience of drone services that capture comprehensive aerial views to the added layer of security provided by Jobsite Surveillance, we have you covered. Explore our add-on services to take your project to the next level.

Jobsite Surveillance 

Jobsite Surveillance combines our Intelligent Motion Alerts with a team of trained monitoring professionals to provide you with powerful peace of mind. Our monitoring center is UL Listed and Five Diamond Certified, ranking it in the top 5% of monitoring centers.

Drone Services 

Easily capture every angle of your jobsite, from the air or the ground. Choose a single flight to document the finished project or utilize routine missions for more detailed progress tracking.

Camera Installation & Integrations

Installation

In today’s competitive climate, most construction firms face tight deadlines and budgets. Complex camera installations can waste precious time, so it’s important that the solutions you choose are easy to install and set up.

Additionally, they should offer a variety of mounting options to accommodate different types of jobsites and applications. These are some key considerations regarding the installation of your cameras: 

Where will you position your cameras?

Give careful consideration to where you plan to mount your cameras. Consider the camera’s field of view and the application, as well as what type of visuals are most important to capture (time-lapse, still photos, panoramic, or live streaming). 

Need help with camera placement on your jobsite? Your chosen camera provider should offer tailored recommendations via a site map that shows what each camera will be able to see.

How will you mount your cameras?

There are several options for mounting construction cameras. Most solutions include wall and pole mounting hardware, but many vendors also offer other mounting options. 

Do you need a turnkey set up?

Many advanced camera solutions come pre-assembled and ready to use, right out of the box. They simply plug into a power source and come online. Need someone to manage the install process for you? Consider using a vendor that provides full-service installation, so that your crew doesn’t have to spend any time on installation. 

Integrations

Advanced construction camera solutions offer built-in integrations with popular project management software like Procore, Autodesk, and more. 

These integrations play a vital role in enhancing project management by allowing seamless access to videos and photos captured by the cameras. It is advisable for firms to prioritize integrating solutions that offer the best and most immediate benefits and return on investment (ROI). Here are two key advantages of integrating construction cameras with project management software:

Simplified Workflows 

Integration between construction cameras and project management software simplifies workflows by enabling the instant transfer of photos and video footage. Project managers can conveniently access live camera feeds directly from their preferred project management platform and easily share photos with contacts stored within the system. This capability ensures that all stakeholders stay informed, promotes faster decision-making, and helps avoid costly delays or rework. 

Efficient Documentation 

The integration of construction cameras with project management software enables rapid access to comprehensive and up-to-date documentation. This documentation not only keeps project managers informed about the progress of the project, but also Seamless Integrations to Simplify Your Workflows The TrueLook Platform integrates with the project management tools you’re already using. Easy access to your construction data and imagery via one application makes it simple and efficient to document and review your project’s progress. Procore Connect Autodesk Connect Construction Camera Buyer’s Guide 22 serves as evidence for scope changes, security issues, and compliance disputes. With integrations, visual documentation is readily available to all stakeholders through a web browser, eliminating the need for rekeying or uploading. The project management platform becomes a centralized repository of video footage and photos, providing a visual record of the entire project timeline. 

By leveraging these integrations, firms can streamline their workflows, facilitate better communication, and maintain thorough documentation, ultimately leading to improved project management and successful project outcomes.

The ROI of Construction Cameras

What Will You Have to Spend on a Camera?

When you are getting multiple quotes for construction cameras, make sure you are comparing apples to apples. Some construction camera companies offer tiered pricing, and certain features are added on as you go. Other companies offer flat rate pricing for all features, with no extra charges for data or storage usage. Take a good look at what you are getting when comparing quotes. 

Another point to pay attention to is leasing vs. purchase. If you are purchasing, are you able to spread the cost of the camera over multiple projects? Do you want to be able to scale your camera solutions up or down after each project? Asking questions like these will help you determine whether leasing or purchasing is best for your situation. 

What Happens When the Project Wraps Up? 

When your project is finished, how do you ensure you can continue to access all the photos and videos the camera captured over the length of the project? And what will you need to do to get a camera quickly up and running on subsequent projects? The vendor that you select should provide ways to easily access all your data and restart service for a new project.

How to Choose a Construction Camera Vendor

Not all construction camera vendors are created equal. It’s important to choose the right vendor who delivers on your expectations and provides the support you need to ensure your camera solutions are operating optimally. Here are some important questions to ask during the vendor evaluation process:

Equipment 

• What camera options are available? 
• Are the cameras ready out of the box, or will they require additional configuration or assembly?
• What camera features are available? 
• What installation and mounting options are available?
• Is mounting hardware included with the equipment? 
• What internet connection options are available?

Software 

• Will I need to install software? 
•  Is there a mobile platform? 
• What cloud security measures do you have in place? 
• How many simultaneous users does the software permit?
•  How often will I receive software updates?
•  Are there additional charges for specific features or software upgrades? 
• What happens to my stored images and videos if I switch vendors in the future? 
• What project management software integrations are available? 
• How long will photos and videos be stored?
• How long will I have access to past projects?
• Does the software allow for different levels of user permissions? 
• How can project data be shared externally?

Support 

• What is your product warranty? 
• Do you provide 24/7 customer support?
•  Is onsite help available?
• What if my equipment fails?
• Is there a satisfaction guarantee?

Cost

• Will I be leasing or purchasing the camera?
• Are there add-on features that I will need to pay for?
• Are there discounts available for paying upfront?
• Are there caps on data usage or media storage?
• If I will be buying in volume, are there enterprise pricing options available? 

Post Project 

• How long will I retain access to my data after a project is completed? 
• What do I need to do in order to get a camera up and running on my next project?
• Can I buy protective cases to keep my hardware safe between jobs and during transportation? 
• Are services available to uninstall my camera?

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About TrueLook

TrueLook Cameras offer the most comprehensive feature set for the jobsite, giving you the features you need to keep your projects on track, without the added hassle. 

With 24/7 support, lifetime warranty, no-contract service plans, and no limits on users, media storage, or data, TrueLook makes your job easier.