If you were asked to describe the benefits of a security camera system, you might say something like “it will help to watch for intruders” or “it will capture footage of bad guys at a home or business.”

While these are correct replies, as it turns out security camera systems have loads of other beneficial features, some of which you may not realize.

With that in mind, let’s look at some of the cool things that a security camera system can do and/or the ways that they can benefit the home and business owners who have them.

1. Home Security Camera Systems May Save You Money

If you are a homeowner, it is worth giving your home insurance agent a jingle to see if security camera system will qualify you for a discount. As Allstate notes, their policy holders may get a break on their homeowners insurance premiums if they install certain security devices on their property, including a burglar alarm system. You work hard for your money, so it is worth a quick phone call or email to your agent to see if you can get a lowered rate.

2. Keep Tabs on Elderly Loved Ones

Yes, security camera systems will keep tabs on your property, but did you know that they can also be used to monitor the precious people who live there? Lorex Technology, a Canadian tech company known for their innovative and affordable security camera systems, has earned a well-deserved reputation for their user-friendly and top-quality cameras. You can stay connected to your security camera system via a remote connectivity app; this will allow you to watch live views of your property. You can use this same approach to keep an eye on elderly relatives. And thanks to free remote viewing, you can use your tablet, smartphone or personal computer to ensure that all is well with them — either while you are at home or away. You can also use the built-in microphone and speaker to communicate with your loved ones, if need be. This feature will provide you and your older relatives with invaluable peace of mind.

3. Create Time Lapse Videos

If your home security camera comes with a time-lapse feature, you can use this to make cool videos that show certain changes over time. For example, if you are having work done on your front or back yard — like getting an in-ground pool installed — you can create a time-lapse video that will record the momentous occasion. You can also use this feature for demolition that you might be having done on your property, to record a garden or other landscaping growing over time or to get short footage of a snowstorm that lasts all day long.

4. Capture Footage of Local Critters

If you have wild animals that visit your property, you can use your home security camera system to record any interesting critters in the area. As an NBC story notes, motion detection cameras in the wild have captured some pretty unusual poses and activity in wild animals — some of them act like they know they are being filmed. If your security camera system has motion activation as well, you might get some great footage of the four-legged creatures that share your property in the wee hours. For example, if you know there is a family of raccoons on your property that comes out late at night, the camera will capture amazing footage of these interesting animals. The video can also be used to solve any mysterious thumps and bumps in the night — like a curious coyote who is hanging out on your property and knocking planters or other items over; in addition to being interesting to watch, this type of footage can help you know just what was going “bump” in the night.

If you have wild animals that visit your property, you can use your home security camera system to record any interesting critters in the area. As an NBC story notes, motion detection cameras in the wild have captured some pretty unusual poses and activity in wild animals — some of them act like they know they are being filmed. If your security camera system has motion activation as well, you might get some great footage of the four-legged creatures that share your property in the wee hours. For example, if you know there is a family of raccoons on your property that comes out late at night, the camera will capture amazing footage of these interesting animals. The video can also be used to solve any mysterious thumps and bumps in the night — like a curious coyote who is hanging out on your property and knocking planters or other items over; in addition to being interesting to watch, this type of footage can help you know just what was going “bump” in the night.

Once you realize that a security camera system can do more than watch for thieves, you will probably find other fun ways to think outside of the camera box.