Hidden Cameras

How many times have you seen television special of incidents where people are “caught on hidden camera”? Perhaps the first show to make that concept popular was Candid Camera, after which incidents involving hidden cameras became a normal part of every day television. Of course, hidden camera footage is not always about comedy and is, in fact, sometimes a very serious matter.

Hidden video cameras have been located almost everywhere not prohibited by law. While it is illegal to place cameras in a restroom, many cameras have been hidden in locker rooms. Male locker room hidden cameras have especially produced interesting and hilarious footage for many television shows, ranging from towel fights and slips on the wet tile floor to locker pranks played on other individuals. With hidden locker room cameras, locker rooms have become taboo places to share secrets or perform certain tasks that used to be considered safe in such a quiet, private location.

Hidden camera videos have made a lot of money for people in the past, including many contestants on shows like America’s Funniest Home Videos, and others have brought incredible ratings to shows like The Man Show.

In order to publish hidden camera pics or show footage on television, express permission must be given by the subjects of the film. This is often the most difficult part, and some shows and artists have been sued by subjects due to their lack of willing participation in such programs. At the same time, many enjoy their opportunity to be on screen for any purpose and will sign the documents necessary to allow their publication or presentation. In fact, many people have lost lawsuits where they were simply trying to get a payoff settlement out of court and signed permission has been presented as evidence from the photographers.

Hidden cameras are also used often in serious applications, including security. For example, many homeowners use hidden cameras to track what the maid or babysitter does, making sure that no objects are stolen and that animals and children are not being abused. In many businesses, hidden cameras work against employee theft or catch trespassers and thieves breaking into a facility. In financial institutions, many safes and vaults are monitored via hidden camera, and in malls and department stores, closed circuit television monitors most areas of the stores to maintain a crime-free facility. Hidden cameras have many applications, some of which are humorous and make money, but others are incorporated into serious applications to prevent loss of finances.