Wearable and Concealable Cameras

Wearable and Concealable Cameras

Covert and hands-free recording devices for documentation and accountability.

Overview

Wearable and concealable cameras are discreet devices used to record video and/or audio from a first-person perspective. These tools are especially valuable to activists, journalists, and legal observers who need to document events like protests, police interactions, or public misconduct—often in high-risk or hostile environments.

These devices come in many forms, including body cams, pen cameras, button cameras, glasses, and hidden cameras embedded in clothing or everyday objects.

Note: Recording individuals without their consent may be restricted depending on jurisdiction. Always research and respect local laws on audio and video recording.

How It Works

Small form-factor cameras capture visual and/or audio data and store it locally (usually on a microSD card) or stream it wirelessly to another device. Most wearable cameras include:

• A lens and image sensor (low-light sensitivity is a plus)
• A small battery and memory module
• A discreet mounting method (glasses, buttons, necklace, hat, etc.)
• Sometimes Bluetooth or Wi-Fi for remote access/live streaming

Some devices are motion-activated or loop-record continuously until stopped.

Types of Devices

• Body Cams: Worn on the chest or shoulder (police-style). May be visible or hidden in clothing.
• Eyewear Cameras: Built into glasses or sunglasses for point-of-view recording.
• Button or Pen Cameras: Embedded in clothing buttons or writing pens.
• DIY Hidden Cameras: Using small modules (like the SQ11 or ESP32-CAM) embedded into bags, hats, or accessories.

DIY Builds

• Modules like the ESP32-CAM or Raspberry Pi Zero with camera can be embedded in common items.
• Power from a USB power bank or small LiPo battery.
• Can be programmed to record to SD or stream to a secure Wi-Fi device.
• Consider adding a physical switch for rapid activation.

Warning: Heat and battery safety should be considered for wearable electronics.

Use Cases in Activism

• Documenting unlawful police behavior during protests.
• Recording public officials in public places for accountability.
• Protecting oneself during solo activism or street canvassing.
• Collecting visual evidence in environments where holding a camera may draw attention or provoke aggression.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

• Legality:
  • Laws vary on whether you can record audio/video in public or private spaces.
  • In some areas, all-party consent is required for audio recording.
  • Video-only recording in public is often legal—but check specifics.

• Ethics:
  • Avoid recording individuals in private situations without consent.
  • Blur or mask faces of bystanders when sharing publicly.
  • Use recordings responsibly, especially when exposing wrongdoing.

Safety Tips

• Test equipment thoroughly before using in the field.
• Use encrypted memory cards or secure uploads in case the device is confiscated.
• Keep a decoy device or use layered clothing to protect camera location.
• Inform trusted allies when you’re recording covertly in case backup is needed.

Tools and Projects

• Open Witness Project – Tools and frameworks for community accountability.
• ObscuraCam – An app to redact or anonymize faces in photos/videos.
• Esp32-CAM tutorials (various on GitHub and Hackaday).

References and Further Reading

• EFF’s guide on documenting police misconduct: https://www.eff.org
• Tactical Tech’s DIY surveillance countermeasures
• Hackaday: DIY wearable camera builds and teardown reviews

Legal Disclaimer

This content is for educational purposes only. Covert recording may be illegal depending on location and context. Always understand and comply with local privacy and consent laws before using wearable cameras. Use this knowledge to protect rights and promote transparency.