What Is a Construction Camera?

A construction camera is a specialized outdoor camera designed to automatically document construction projects from start to finish. Unlike security cameras, construction cameras focus on capturing high-quality photos at regular intervals to create progress documentation, stakeholder reports, and time-lapse videos.

The Simple Definition

A construction camera is a weatherproof, internet-connected camera that takes photos of your jobsite automatically—up to every minute—and stores them in the cloud so you can access them from anywhere. Over time, these photos create a complete visual record of your project and can be turned into time-lapse videos.

What Makes Up a Construction Camera System

High-Resolution Camera Sensor

12-64 megapixel sensors capture detailed photos suitable for documentation and zooming.

Cellular Connectivity

Built-in 4G modem uploads photos automatically without relying on site WiFi.

Weatherproof Housing

IP66-rated enclosure protects electronics from rain, dust, snow, and temperature extremes.

Automated Scheduling

Intelligent software captures photos 24/7 on your configured schedule.

How a Construction Camera Works

1

Camera Installation

The camera is mounted at a location with a clear view of the construction site. Installation can be done by your team or through Builder.Cam's turnkey service.

2

Automatic Photo Capture

Once connected to power, the camera automatically captures high-resolution photos at your chosen interval—up to every minute, 24/7.

3

Cloud Upload

Photos are uploaded via built-in 4G cellular connectivity to secure cloud storage. No site WiFi or IT setup required.

4

Remote Access

View live and historical photos from any device through a web browser. Share access with team members and stakeholders.

5

Time-Lapse Creation

At project completion, generate professional time-lapse videos from your photo archive to showcase the entire construction journey.

Construction Camera vs Security Camera

Construction cameras and security cameras serve different purposes. Here's how they compare:

AspectConstruction CameraSecurity Camera
Primary PurposeDocument progress over timeMonitor for threats in real-time
Capture MethodHigh-res photos at intervalsContinuous video recording
Photo Quality12-64 megapixels1-8 megapixels typical
Storage FocusLong-term archive (months/years)Short-term retention (days/weeks)
ConnectivityCellular (4G) built-inUsually requires site network
OutputTime-lapse videos, photo reportsSecurity footage, alerts

Why Use a Construction Camera?

Save time on site visits – Check progress remotely instead of driving to every site daily.
Keep stakeholders informed – Share access with owners, investors, and team members.
Document everything automatically – Create proof of progress without manual photo-taking.
Resolve disputes with evidence – Timestamped photos prove what happened and when.
Create marketing content – Time-lapse videos showcase your work impressively.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a construction camera cost?

Builder.Cam pricing starts from €200 per month, which includes camera rental, 4G connectivity, cloud storage, and platform access. Most customers choose configurations around €250 per month with additional features like higher photo frequency or publishing tools.

How long does installation take?

Self-installation typically takes 30-60 minutes. The camera just needs to be mounted and connected to power—it configures itself automatically. Builder.Cam also offers turnkey installation service for €1,500 if you prefer professional setup.

What power source do construction cameras need?

Builder.Cam cameras require standard electrical power (220V). They're designed for permanent installation during the project duration. The camera draws minimal power and can be connected to temporary site power.

Can multiple people access the camera?

Yes. The base plan includes access for 5 users, with options to expand to 50 users. You can share view-only or full access with team members, clients, and stakeholders.

What happens to the photos after the project ends?

All photos remain accessible in the cloud platform for the duration of your subscription. Builder.Cam offers archive options to preserve your project documentation long-term, including cloud archive service and physical media delivery.

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