Outdoor Blog

How Do Trail Cameras Work?

Published

4 years ago

April 12, 2020

Hunting has been developing for centuries.

We began hunting as cavemen, chasing deer and other fauna with spears along the great plains of our world. This was for our survival as a species and as the centuries passed a sporting aspect to hunting began. Next came the bow and arrow, and then the rifle. No longer do you have to be extremely cunning and have bag loads of stamina to get your kill, but a mere squeeze of your finger.

The ability to take down an animal with a gun opened up the activity to more than just young men. Like with the advancement to the rifle, there are other moves forward in the sport as technology moves forward and the world adapts to it.

One game-changing gadget for hunters is trail cameras, aka game cameras. These devices are remote cameras that are placed in a discreet location where you are targeting game for your hunt. It allows you to build up an idea of what your target is, where it is, and what its routine is. You can utilize this information in order to improve your kill rate when the season is open and grab yourself that buck that you’ve been studying for months.

Game cameras are not only for hunters who are chasing after wild animals. They can also be used to aid you in watching out for pests, trespassers, and poachers. They’re also useful for wildlife enthusiasts who just want to see what lurks in their favorite piece of woodland. Many people also use them for testing whether there are rare animals in their area that are seldom seen (such as cougars, who are rarely seen by humans). Others also set them up to see if they can catch some footage of the elusive bigfoot.

In this article, we shall look into how a game camera works, and the methods that you can use to get the most out of a game camera.

Types of Game Cameras

There are various types of game cameras, each of which we shall look into at more detail.

This includes:

Digital trail cameras
Cellular trail cameras
Laser aim trail cameras
Strobe flash trail cameras
Film trail cameras
Infrared trail cameras
Sound-producing trail cameras
Security cameras

Read on to learn more about each.

A young boy holding a hunting shotgun in a field.

The way we hunt is ever-changing and a game camera can give you a big helping hand when the season opens.

What is a Trail Camera?

Before we look at all of the individual types of trail/game cameras and how they work we shall first examine what a game camera actually is. Game cameras are remote devices that you place in woodland or anywhere in the backcountry with the purpose of receiving footage of the native wildlife. These devices sit in a hidden position as to not alert wildlife to their presence. This means that you can examine the animals acting naturally going about their day-to-day business.

If you wished to photograph the wildlife without a game camera the animals shall most likely be well aware of you being there. Animals can pick up your sense of smell and hear you approaching from a long way off. Even big predators such as grizzly have no intention of being near you and will do their utmost to avoid you. They’ll only come into contact with you if they see you as a direct threat.

With this in mind, wildlife should only be photographed manually if your intention is to get some great snaps and not to track their movements. The quality of the image of game cameras tends to be a lot lower than a normal camera. They contain fewer megapixels as their energy is focused on maintaining battery life as it tends to last for around three months.

Your trail camera has a motion sensor as part of the system. This spurts into action when it registers movement in front of it, triggering the camera and taking a photograph. These can be quite sensitive so be sure that your camera has a clear view of its target area without interference from objects such as overhanging branches.

Luckily your game cameras sensor settings can be adjusted most of the time. This means that if you’re targeting big game such a moose or whitetail deer you can adjust the detection range so that it won’t take a photo of the slightest movement. Likewise, if you are targeting smaller animals or pests such as raccoons you can adapt it so that it doesn’t avoid taking a photo when they go past.

How Digital Trail Cameras Work

One of the common game cameras is digital cameras. These function in a similar manner to your typical handheld one. These are described as being self-contained units, meaning that everything that they need to function is already installed within the device. These feature their own power, data storage, and often have the ability to take photos at night (see: Best Night Trail Cameras). The nighttime technology tends to take the photograph through a standard flash, or through infrared technology.

Digital cameras are triggered by a motion sensor (see: Best Motion-Activated Trail Cameras). When an animal enters within its frame parameters the motion sensor triggers the camera to take a shot, recording a still frame. The range of these motion sensors varies depending on the manufacturer of your trail camera. A better quality one, that offers a good shot at a distance is likely to have a wide-ranging motion sensor in order for it’s shot capabilities to be utilized.

A few of the digital game camera models also have a video function and shall record footage of your target for you. They tend to come with slots for SD cards to hold the camera’s memory files, just like a regular digital camera. When you want to retrieve your images it is best to do a straight swap of SD cards and wait until you are home before you download the images. This is so you don’t hang around where you are shooting for too long as this can deter what you are trying to shoot from entering the area.

How Cellular Trail Cameras Work

For those of you who want to be constantly in the know of what sort of footage your trail camera is picking up then a cellular trail camera is a great idea to think about. They take images in a similar manner to your digital camera. However, the images collected are not stored within the camera itself. Instead, the image is sent to your cell phone and you receive it instantly.

To have the capability to send the image the cellular trail camera must have a SIM card and the ability to receive internet data just like a smartphone. These wireless trail cameras will, unfortunately, come with a monthly cost to keep the images sending. You also must place the cellular trail camera in a location where it will receive a signal so it has the ability to send the images. This perhaps rules out a few territories that are remote and don’t receive signals from cell phone masts.

However, there are considerable benefits if you choose to opt for this type of game camera. Firstly you do not have to trek out so often to check on your camera, as the only regular visits that you need to make is to change the battery. They are especially useful if you have multiple cameras set up in different locations as they can save you countless hours on having to check on all of them. You also know instantly if an image has been taken so if you are one of these people that like to be constantly in the know of what’s going on then you will be.

A game camera will lie in wait so you don’t have to.

How Laser Aim Game Cameras Work

Laser aim game cameras can be thought of as being digital game cameras plus. These have laser technology installed which pinpoints the exact area that you want the image to be taken in. You can personally control the settings before you set it up so that it takes the photos in. As well as giving you greater autonomy over your camera it also provides better quality pictures, making it a worthwhile investment.

How Strobe Flash Game Cameras Work

Some of the more traditional game cameras contain a strobe flash, which works on a high trigger speed. Strobe flashes are a quick bright light that goes off so fast that the game won’t have time to stop and stare at it. This means that they’ll be in a natural position when it goes off. Yes, it is bright enough to spook them, yet the key advantage of the strobe flash trail camera is that it provides a good picture quality.

Another key advantage of the strobe flash camera is the flash range. It provides a wide field of view and is almost akin to having night vision. Another benefit is that if you have installed a game camera as a security measure, then the quick flash should scare any trespassers away. Just keep in mind that it can do the same to the game!

How Game Cameras with a Film Format Work

Not all game cameras have a digital format. Although similar in its setup and function, a film camera uses traditional film roll to save its footage instead of storing it on a memory card. Because of this, you cannot check your footage like when you’re out in the field like you can with a digital model. Instead, you must wait until you get home and develop it.

Cameras with a film roll camera don’t tend to have any distinct advantages apart from some of them being able to pick up better quality images. They are mainly a personal preference with regards to photography in general. Some of us don’t mind the wait for the photographs and enjoy self-developing at home as a hobby in itself. This for those who prefer traditional photography then perhaps a camera that uses a film roll format is the one for you.

How Infrared Trail Cameras Work

A lot of locations that you wish to use your trail camera in may have low light levels meaning that the photos that your camera is taking aren’t high-quality. This is particularly apparent when you have your trail camera set up in deep woodland. This is one of the prime spots for getting footage of deer and other creatures due to you not being able to know their spots as you can in open territory. This is where infrared cameras can become useful in providing you with better image quality.

A trail camera that has an infrared feature will utilize it automatically when it is necessary. This sends out a small infrared flash that will brighten the picture without omitting a white flash. Instead, the infrared light emits a low glow or no glow at all. This is very useful as the game that you are photograph should not be aware of the image being taken kike they would if it was a traditional flash going off.

There are different types of infrared light that are used in these cameras. You can choose from using a red light or a white one. This does not tend to have an overall effect on the overall quality of your picture but it can give the final image a different overall tint after it has been produced.

How Sound-Producing Game Cameras Work

Some of you may want to draw the wildlife towards you instead of having the camera sitting there anonymously waiting for the animals to pass by. This works best if you are tracking them in order to understand their patterns of movements to improve your ability to hunt them. Others may want to try and attract animals to them in order to take some great shots and see what really lives in the forest. This is where a sound-producing camera can come into play.

These trail cameras have a plethora of recordings of animals on them such as mating calls. When the sounds are activated it attracts other animals into the area allowing you to capture footage of the animal as it approaches to investigate. You can choose which animal noises you want on the camera and remotely play them. Some also have a motion sensor or a timer to activate the sound.

How Trail Security Cameras Work

Security cameras can also be used on game trails. These are often used by people looking out for trespassers on their land or for people poaching. No one wants their favorite hunting areas or their own land to be tarnished by others. Security cameras allow you to see who is causing a nuisance or as a deterrent if it is positioned in an obvious place where the offender can see it in plain sight.

These are particularly good if you own a cabin in the backcountry and you want some home security during the offseason. It’s also ideal if you have some hides set up and you don’t want them to be tarnished. The security cameras are hooked up to a computer system which can be done wirelessly or to a local system. USB or flash storage can save the footage that your camera picks up. If you have an advanced system this footage can be sent remotely to a home device, although this may be expensive and difficult in a remote location.

A person holding a hunter rifle with a scope.

No need to hide in the trees, when a game camera can track movement for you.

Final Thoughts

There is a huge range of game cameras to choose from and they all work in different ways. The most straightforward and easiest to operate is perhaps the digital game camera (especially a Browning trail camera). If you are new to game cameras then this is an ideal one to go for. Much of the technology may take a little while to get a hold of, but for beginners, this is your best bet.

If you hunt over a wide range and plan to install a few cameras around then cellular game cameras are a great idea. With these, you don’t need to go around to inspect the footage as it is sent to your phone as soon as the image is taken. You only need to go out to replace the batteries, which tends to be around every three months, as well as to make any necessary adjustments. This is also a great option if you live far away from your favorite hunting grounds or you are simply too busy to check on your trail camera all of the time.

In this blog post, we have discerned the different ways in which different game cameras work. We hope that you now have a better understanding of how each type operates and it allows you to come to an informed decision as to which is the right one for you. Everyone has a different reason for using a game camera and all of the different types are suitable for specific activities.

Bonus tip: If you’re like us and cannot get enough info about trail game cameras, then check out this video!

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

1 month ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.

Outdoor Blog

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Sam Brooks

The wilderness beckons with the promise of adventure, but any seasoned hunter knows that what you wear can make or break your experience. Gone are the days when outdoor apparel was purely utilitarian. Today, fashion and functionality blend seamlessly to create gear that’s not only practical but also stylish. From the latest camouflage patterns to weather-resistant fabrics, let’s explore the evolution of outdoor apparel and how it’s revolutionizing the way we approach the great outdoors.

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Camouflage has come a long way from the simple green and brown patterns of yesteryear. Modern camouflage designs are now a blend of advanced science and cutting-edge style. These patterns aren’t just about blending into the background; they’re about creating an optical illusion that makes the wearer nearly invisible to wildlife.

Contemporary camo gear incorporates a variety of colors and textures to match different environments, from dense forests to arid deserts. This evolution in design is as much about aesthetics as it is about effectiveness, allowing hunters to move through their chosen terrain with confidence and stealth.

The shift towards more sophisticated camouflage patterns also reflects a broader trend in outdoor apparel: the desire for gear that looks good and performs even better. Hunters today want apparel that makes a statement while still providing the ultimate in concealment. Whether it’s a jacket with a sleek, modern design or pants that offer the perfect balance of comfort and camouflage, today’s outdoor apparel combines fashion and function like never before.

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Layering is a critical concept in outdoor apparel, offering both practical and aesthetic benefits. Modern layering systems are designed to regulate body temperature and provide protection from the elements. However, they also offer a chance to showcase personal style. Successful layering starts with choosing pieces that work well together both functionally and visually.

Base layers, for instance, have evolved from simple thermal wear to stylish garments that can be worn on their own or as part of a layered ensemble. These pieces are often made from advanced fabrics that provide warmth without bulk, ensuring that hunters can stay comfortable and mobile. Mid-layers add another dimension of style and functionality, offering insulation while allowing for breathability. Softshell jackets and vests come in many different colors and designs, making it easy to find pieces that suit individual tastes.

Layering can also help you catch different kinds of animals. For instance, when you’re looking for turkey hunting tips, it’s important to look at the best kinds of layering to stay incognito and catch the best birds. Choosing the right layers can make a significant difference in staying comfortable and concealed during long hours in the field.

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

Footwear is another area where outdoor apparel has seen significant evolution. In the past, hunting boots were purely functional, but, today, they still offer these essential qualities but have also become a fashion statement. Modern hunting boots come in a variety of styles, from traditional leather to contemporary synthetic materials, and are available in a range of colors and designs.

The advancements in footwear technology have been remarkable. Today’s hunting boots are designed to be lightweight yet durable, with features like waterproof membranes, breathable linings, and advanced traction systems. These innovations ensure that hunters can move comfortably and safely through any environment. But it’s not just about functionality; the aesthetic appeal of modern hunting boots is undeniable. Many boots are designed with sleek, stylish lines that make them suitable for wearing both in the field and in more casual settings.

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

When it comes to hunting, high-performance gear is a game-changer. This is the section where outdoor apparel truly shines, combining cutting-edge technology with sleek design to create products that offer unmatched performance. Performance hunting gear includes everything from moisture-wicking base layers to high-tech outerwear designed to withstand the harshest conditions.

Today’s high-performance apparel utilizes advanced materials that are both lightweight and durable. Fabrics like Gore-Tex and other proprietary blends offer superior protection against wind and water while maintaining breathability. These materials help regulate body temperature, keeping hunters comfortable in a wide range of environments. In addition to these practical benefits, high-performance gear often features ergonomic designs that allow for a full range of motion, ensuring that hunters can move freely and easily.

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter

Sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration in the world of outdoor apparel. Hunters who are passionate about preserving the wilderness they love to explore are now seeking out eco-friendly clothing options that minimize environmental impact. Eco-friendly outdoor apparel is made from sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and biodegradable fibers. These materials offer the same performance benefits as traditional fabrics but with a lower environmental footprint.

Outdoor Blog

The Role of Camouflage in Wildlife Photography and Hunting

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Caleb Cole

Camouflage plays a vital role in the worlds of wildlife photography and hunting, serving as an indispensable tool for enthusiasts and professionals alike. It’s not just about blending into the environment; it’s about becoming a part of it. Camouflage allows for closer interactions with wildlife, ensuring more successful hunts and breathtaking photographs. Here, we explore the key roles camouflage plays in these outdoor activities.

Blending In: The Art of Disappearing

One of the primary roles of camouflage is to help the wearer blend seamlessly into their surroundings. This art of disappearing is crucial whether you’re capturing a stunning image of a deer at dawn or patiently waiting for your prey during hunting season. In wildlife photography, the goal is to get as close as possible without disturbing the natural behavior of the animals. Camouflage clothing, face paint, and even equipment coverings can make the difference between a once-in-a-lifetime shot and a missed opportunity.

For hunters, blending into the environment increases the chances of a successful hunt. Animals have keen senses, and the slightest hint of an unnatural shape or color can send them running. Camouflage gear allows hunters to become virtually invisible. This skill of blending in isn’t just about wearing the right colors; it’s about understanding the terrain, the light, and how to move with stealth.

Reducing the Human Scent and Sound

Another critical aspect of camouflage in both photography and hunting is the reduction of human scent and sound. Animals naturally use their sense of smell and hearing to detect potential threats. Successful hunting trips often hinge on the ability to minimize human presence in these sensory fields. Specially designed camouflage clothing can help mask human odors, making it harder for animals to pick up on your scent.

Similarly, wildlife photographers need to consider their scent and sound output. Even the most visually inconspicuous photographer can ruin a perfect shot if their scent or a stray noise alerts the animals. Using scent-masking sprays and moving with extreme caution are part of the camouflage strategy, ensuring that photographers can get closer to their subjects without causing alarm.

Enhancing Patience and Stealth

Patience and stealth are virtues that every hunter and wildlife photographer must possess, and camouflage gear enhances these qualities. When you’re properly camouflaged, you can afford to be more patient, knowing that you are less likely to be detected. This confidence allows for longer waiting periods in prime locations, increasing the chances of capturing that perfect shot or making a successful kill.

For wildlife photographers, the need for patience is paramount. Animals won’t always show up when you want them to, and sudden movements can ruin hours of careful preparation. Camouflage helps in remaining undetected, allowing photographers to wait silently and still for the right moment. Hunters also benefit from this patience, as it enables them to wait for the ideal shot without rushing and potentially missing their target.

Specialized Camouflage for Different Hunts: Moose Hunting

Different types of hunting require specialized camouflage, and moose hunting is a prime example. Moose are large, elusive animals often found in dense forests and swampy areas. Successful moose hunters understand the need for specific camouflage patterns that mimic the unique environments where moose thrive. Moose hunting clothes are designed to blend into the dark, shadowy forests and marshes, making hunters virtually invisible to these keen-eyed creatures.

During moose hunting season, the right camouflage can make or break your experience. Moose have excellent vision and can easily detect unnatural movements or colors. By wearing appropriate camouflage, hunters can move quietly and position themselves for a clear shot without spooking their quarry.

The specialized gear often includes clothing that covers the entire body, including gloves and face masks, ensuring that no part of the hunter stands out against the natural backdrop. This thorough approach is essential in moose hunting, where patience and precision are key.

Capturing Authentic Wildlife Behavior

Wildlife photography isn’t just about taking beautiful pictures; it’s about capturing authentic wildlife behavior. Camouflage allows photographers to become invisible observers, documenting animals in their natural state without any human interference. This is particularly important for conservation efforts, as understanding genuine animal behavior can inform better strategies for protecting various species and their habitats.

Photographers who use camouflage can get closer to their subjects, often capturing moments that would be impossible to see from a distance. This proximity results in more intimate and detailed shots, showcasing the animals’ daily activities, interactions, and environments.

The authenticity of these images can inspire greater appreciation and respect for wildlife, encouraging more people to support conservation initiatives. By blending into the environment, photographers can witness and document behaviors that might otherwise go unnoticed, providing invaluable insights into the natural world.

outdoorcommand.com (Post 2)

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter