Dash cams and security cameras are interesting devices.

They project a widescreen, HD image where everything’s in focus. Perfect for budding YouTube viewers (for which there are millions) and for the action that occurs in front of them — it reveals itself to the camera — the camera doesn’t go to it.

Not often thought of as filmmaking, these mini-movies create a thrill and tension that is almost unachievable on regular cinema.

It’s raw, it’s real.

And it’s happening, now… Without warning.

Amygdalas are on full display as fear and anger project themselves through the display of a car crash or a shoplift or a violent outburst. These ‘not-staged’ moments are amazing examples of how cameras can be used in society to capture the ‘unmemorable’ for eternity.

What I mean by ‘unmemorable’, is that these actions, activities, and disasters often leave an imprint on those involved with an unreliable and unrealistic memory. So, although the event is memorized it’s done so in a biased and often overenthusiastic manner. The spontaneity of these cameras capturing the unexpected thrills of society as they occur is what makes them riveting and thrilling viewing.

They present a unique viewing experience for a modern digital audience, which is why their YouTube view counts are in the millions.

They can also create an opportunity for unique voices in filmmaking.

Leaving the security cameras of Paranormal Activity aside, I believe this is an area that hasn’t been fully explored by indie cinema.

Innovation is key to success in filmmaking in the modern age and with an audience already inbuilt, watching these videos on YouTube — crafting a film around their tastes could be just what this audience is looking for.

Anyone game?