4 Pro-Tips For Optimizing Your Police Dash Cam’s Footage

By now, most police officers understand the plethora of benefits that come with investing in law enforcement dash cameras. In fact, in 2000, only 3,400 (11%) of state police and highway patrol vehicles had in-car cameras, but today, it is estimated that about 72% of all state patrol vehicles utilize in-car video systems. On top of that, more and more local police departments are investing in body cameras with each passing month. However, the key to getting the most out of any video recording device, especially police car video cameras, is to know how to use them properly. Because law enforcement training so rarely involves film classes, here are just a few pro-tips for getting the best footage from your dashboard camera.

Use Digital Storage Solutions

If your law enforcement agency has not yet upgraded to the latest digital storage solutions, then you’re falling dangerously behind. Because of the sheer volume of data that police cameras record on a daily basis, it is necessary to utilize an efficient digital collection and storage system. This way, evidence can be easily recorded, uploaded, stored, and organized at all times. Even better, you will be able to instantly recall video evidence on demand.

Keep The Screen Clean

This is more of a basic maintenance procedure than a pro-tip, but nonetheless, a surprising number of people neglect this important step. Dirty screens can cause severe quality issues with footage and make it appear foggy and blurry. It only takes a minute to wipe down the screen. And don’t forget, the same applies to your vehicle’s windshield! A dirty windshield can cause the camera to focus incorrectly, so keep it clean at all times. The last thing you want is to compromise evidence because of a dirty camera lens or windshield.

Adjust To The Optimal Angle

Many dash camera users don’t think about the impact that the angle can have on the overall quality of the footage. Not only can a dash camera positioned at too high of an angle fail to capture necessary details in the event of an altercation, but it can also cause excess glare and ruin the footage completely. According to Hypermiller.co.uk, “glare will make the dash cam compensate for the brightness of the sky by making the rest of the video darker. This can reduce the quality of the things to want to capture like that car on the wrong side of the road hurtling towards you.” Take a minute to set the camera’s optimal angle before it starts recording. If you are in a supervisory position, make sure that this message is passed along to every officer who takes a dash camera on patrol.

Perform a Test After Every Change to the Vehicle

Finally, most people don’t think about the clutter on their dashboards that can obstruct the view of the camera. The best way to avoid running into this problem is to remove any unnecessary items from your dash before setting the camera up to record. In fact, after any changes to police vehicles, the cameras should be carefully tested before use. After you adjust the cameras accordingly, take some test footage, review it, and make any necessary changes before hitting the road. Ultimately, keeping these pro-tips in mind will help you achieve optimal dash cam footage each and every time. For more information about law enforcement dash cameras, contact 10-8 Video.