Do you want to monitor wildlife, protect your cabin, or keep tabs on what's happening on your property? A trail camera makes all this possible automatically, quietly, and wirelessly. In this article, we'll clearly explain what a trail camera is, what it can do, and how to choose the right one.
What is a trail camera and what is it used for?
A trail camera is a special camera that activates itself when it detects motion. It's designed for outdoor use and operates completely autonomously — no cables or constant supervision required.
It's used for purposes such as:
- Monitoring animals (by hunters, foresters),
- Protecting cabins, gardens, construction sites,
- Surveillance of private properties.
Users return to the trail camera to check recordings, or (in the case of more advanced models) the trail camera sends photos directly to their email or mobile app.
How a trail camera works
The basic principle of a trail camera's operation is always the same, regardless of brand or type.
- Motion Detection
Inside the trail camera is a PIR sensor (Passive Infrared sensor) that reacts to temperature changes, meaning the movement of a living creature in front of the lens.
- Photo or Video Recording
After detecting motion, the trail camera captures a series of photos or a short video. Each photo includes the date and time it was taken. At night, it uses invisible IR illuminators that don't disturb animals or people.
- Data Storage or Transmission
Classic models store everything on an SD card. Advanced trail cameras with GSM or WiFi can send images to your email, mobile phone, or the cloud.
- Power Supply
Most trail cameras run on AA batteries. It's also possible to connect external power, such as a solar panel.
How a GSM trail camera works
A GSM trail camera is equipped with a SIM card, similar to a mobile phone. After detecting motion, it sends a photo to the specified email address or uploads it to cloud storage.
For proper operation, you need:
- A SIM card without a PIN code and with active data,
- Network access (signal),
- A configured email, cloud, or phone number for MMS.
How a trail camera with WiFi works
Trail cameras with WiFi connectivity don't use the mobile network, but rather create their own WiFi signal. You connect to them using a mobile app on your phone, where you can view and download images, and even change device settings.
The WiFi range is approximately 20–25 meters, which is ideal for use in a garden or near your home.
Tip: Do you know how to choose a trail camera?
What does a trail camera record?
It depends on the settings, but generally, a trail camera records any movement of a warm-blooded creature in its field of view (animal, human), day or night, precisely according to the set interval, resolution, or time.
At night, it uses invisible infrared illumination (IR LED) that doesn't emit light visible to the human eye. This is why you typically won't notice the trail camera.
Viewing trail camera recordings
You can view trail camera recordings in several ways, depending on the model you're using.
- On the device's display – Trail cameras have a small integrated display where you can play back photos and videos directly.
- Via SD card on a computer – Remove the memory card from the trail camera and insert it into a reader on your computer or laptop. This is the most common method for classic models.
- In your email or on your mobile phone – When properly set up, GSM trail cameras send captured images to your email inbox or mobile phone.
- In a mobile app – For WiFi or GSM trail cameras, images are also available wirelessly via a phone app. Either directly (WiFi) or remotely (GSM/Cloud).
What can you set on a trail camera?
Modern trail cameras are surprisingly smart devices. They allow you to set a variety of parameters based on what you want to monitor, when, how often, and in what way. This helps you save battery life, memory, and tailor the device's behavior precisely to your needs. The most common setting options include:
Shooting Mode
- Photo – The trail camera only takes still images.
- Video – Records short videos.
- Photo + Video – After activation, it first takes a photo and then records a video.
- Time-lapse – The trail camera takes images at regular intervals, even without motion.
Photo and Video Resolution
Higher resolution means better quality but greater memory demands. You can set it to, for example, 8, 12, 16, or 20 MP (photo), and 720p or 1080p (video).
Interval Between Shots
This determines how long the trail camera will wait after detecting motion before activating recording again. Typical values are 5 s, 30 s, 1 min.
PIR Sensor Sensitivity
Low / Medium / High – This controls how sensitively the trail camera reacts to motion. High sensitivity is suitable for smaller animals or more distant objects. Low sensitivity reduces false alarms.
Operation Timer
Allows you to set when the trail camera should be active. This is useful for monitoring wildlife or protecting property during specific hours.
IR Illumination
On some models, you can adjust the intensity of the invisible infrared illumination for night shooting. Options include: weak / medium / strong / automatic mode.
Number of Shots per Activation
For example, 1, 2, 3, or 5 photos after motion detection. This is ideal if you want to ensure nothing is missed (e.g., fast-moving wildlife).
A trail camera as your helpful tool
A trail camera can save you time and worry. All you need to do is choose the right model and set it up for your environment. Check out the range of proven models from EVOLVEO and start monitoring what's happening in your forest, garden, or on your property.
Frequently asked questions and myths
Do I need internet for a trail camera to work?
Classic models do not need internet at all. Only GSM models use mobile data, and WiFi models are for direct connection to a phone.
Does a trail camera constantly take photos?
No. A trail camera only activates when motion is detected.
Does it work through a window or glass?
Typically no. The PIR sensor does not detect motion through glass – the trail camera must be in an open space.
Does it need to be checked often?
It depends on the type. GSM and WiFi models inform you remotely, while classic ones require you to physically retrieve the data occasionally. However, you'll need to regularly replace batteries for all types.
How long do batteries last in a trail camera?
Battery life depends on the type of batteries, usage mode, and settings. With quality AA lithium batteries, a trail camera typically lasts 3–6 months; with solar power, it can last even longer. Frequent photo capture, night mode, and video recording significantly reduce battery life.
