Clandestine Photography and Surveillance

On December 6, 2017 I wrote: "If you plan to record telephone calls or in-person conversations (including by recording video that captures sound), you should be aware that there are federal and state wiretapping laws that may limit your ability to do so. These laws not only expose you to the risk of criminal prosecution, but also potentially give an injured party a civil claim for money damages against you." But just because the law may limit or even prohibit these recordings, it doesn't mean that you are not being recorded all without your knowledge or permission.

A pen, a wristwatch, or a necklace may all contain hidden recording devices.  Place your smartphone in a pocket with just the camera lens sticking out and control the camera with a Bluetooth Camera Shutter Remote Control and nobody is likely to notice that you are taking photographs. Just remember to turn off the shutter sound and the flash on your smartphone camera.

With a little practice to get use to range and view of your smartphone camera it is possible to get very good quality photos without drawing any attention to yourself as you take them. If the phone is not in your hand most people won't realize that you are using it to take a photo.

In some places where they may prohibit the presence of cell-phones, you can still get photos and sound recordings using cameras concealed in pens, watches, and similar common items. These concealed cameras won't give you the same quality photo as the camera on your smartphone, but the photos and recordings are clear enough for many surveillance purposes.

You can also use a small Telephoto Lens for Smartphones that lets you take photos from a distance, without the need to use a large and noticeable camera. Photographs can also be taken at a distance using binoculars and your smartphone, as demonstrated in this YouTube video.

If you are concerned about clandestine photography and surveillance, understanding these techniques can make you more aware when they are used against you. If you need to gather information without it being obvious to others, then understanding these techniques, and having access to a couple of hidden cameras will certainly improve your surveillance options.