And Gregory Jones, political action chairman for the state NAACP, said that — given the magnification powers of modern cameras — the change could lead to “a much more intimidating environment,” especially for first-time voters.

But Annette Kuglitsch, who said she had worked as an election observer in places like Waukesha and Milwaukee, said cameras could make it possible to get documentation of violations at the polls.

Board member Elsa Lamelas said there’s a difference between showing up on a surveillance camera when going to a bank for example, and voting.

“There’s a difference. Voting is a constitutional right,” she said.

But board member Timothy Vocke stressed that he didn’t have concerns about cameras and wasn’t opposed to the change.

Earlier this year, Gov. Scott Walker signed a bill allowing observers to get closer to those they are monitoring. The legislation said that observation areas at polling places can be as close as three feet from the tables where voters obtain ballots or register, or from counting locations — rather than the six feet previously required. Photographing ballots is still prohibited.