WHICH CAMERA
What DVR camera should you use?
Choosing the right DVR is a minefield.
What is more important, megapixels or high definition? The size of lens or the angle of lens? CMOS or CCD? Recording quality or playback quality? Lux considerations? Do I need an image stabiliser? The list goes on and on...with opinions varied.
Add to that, less than scrupulous online suppliers, meaning unfortunately you don’t always get what you think you are buying.
We know because we’ve purchased and tested just about every available product on the market and have been horrified by what we found. Just take a look at the image example here, captured on a 'so called' HD camera!
Do not be fooled by the price, a glossy picture or even
at times the detailed description, as in many cases the internal workings are substituted with cheap ones.
So, what’s the solution?
As with anything in life, the usual rule of thumb applies…
‘you get what you pay for’.
You can’t go too far wrong if you stick
to that principle. Stick to the big brands
or recommendations from those you know.
We have started to collate a list of other reputable suppliers, so email us if you are
still unsure what in-car DVR suits your needs.
Some important things to consider...
When it comes to evidence, having the right quality of image is critical. The Police will not support a complaint where the evidence is not clear and irrefutable, so some caution is needed when choosing your camera.
BEWARE: An example of a low quality video captured with a 'so called' HD in-car DVR. Even close up the number plate is blurred and of no use to anyone!
Quite simply you can use any quality, high definition in-car DVR you like.
However have these two VERY important things in mind when purchasing or using an existing camera:
1) Don’t use a camera that puts you in a position, where it is you that commits the offence.
For example driving along using your mobile phone camera or a normal camcorder is a definite NO! Your DVR camera needs be secured by way of window mounted suction cup or bespoke clamp.
2) What do you want to use your videos for?
If it’s to help protect you, or indeed defend you following a road accident or to enable the Police and Crown Prosecution Service to successfully prosecute a dangerous driver, then the quality of the image captured is vital. We can not emphasise this point enough.
Click the yellow bar below to see a 'prosecution quality' example.
Using your camera for fun...
Whilst road safety is paramount to us, who says using your camera can't be fun too?
Many cameras come with a host of mounting options, so whether you attach your HD camera to
a bicycle,a helmet, a motorbike, skateboard or surfboard...remember - just enjoy it!
Then upload your fun clips to YouTube to share with the world!
