When I heard of using cameras for scouting, I had images of fast-forwarding through hours of footage with no guarantee of finding anything. After actually looking at what they do I was impressed.

Scouting cameras use infrared to detect deer movement and take a picture. So you set it up, program it, and leave it. Pretty amazing. Instead of waiting for ages, you can use a scouting camera to do the waiting for you. And scouting cameras don't get bored or need to sneeze. They are excellent for finding out deer activity during the night. The infrared flash is practically invisible to the naked eye, and gives a detailed and high resolution picture, though usually slightly tinted with red.

That being said, here are a few tips to make sure that you'll be happy:

- Don't place camera facing the sun
- Clear anything from the front of the camera: grass, weeds...
- Put the camera about 20ft from the potential capture location

Cameras are best used where you'd expect deer activity: scrapes, rubs, mineral licks, food plots

They can be used to discover deer activity in potential hotspots, or they can identify if the deer are worth hunting. Big, experienced bucks are easier to scout using these cameras

The great thing about scouting cameras is the time they save you, and the information about deer activity they provide

The disadvantage is they can be expensive, and can be stolen. Most cameras come with a locking system to prevent theft and to secure the camera to the tree.

To take your hunting to the next, high-tech level, a scouting camera can prove to be a valuable investment.