Who doesn't love a good movie and a huge screen? But could you be watched as you are watching? Are there security cameras in movie theaters?
Let's talk about this topic, so you will be aware of what happens in this place.
Do they have surveillance cameras in movie theaters?
So, are there any surveillance security cameras in movie theaters to monitor the spectators while the lights are off and they are enjoying the movie?
Security cameras are everywhere. You can see them on malls, stores, banks, gyms, subway, and in the movie theatres. Yeah, tha't right; surveillace camera are there watching you.
Woman concerned about security camera in a movie theater
From sneaking in foods to keep from purchasing the expensive snacks to putting your feet up when the lights are off. Or even the first move when going with your crush.
But somehow, you can feel a bit violated when learning that you are being watched as you sit back and enjoy your movie.
However, to us being watched isn't news. The growth of technology has allowed us to have more safety in today's world.
Wherever you go nowadays you are most likely being watched. From malls to supermarkets to banks. Cameras have now become a part of our everyday lives.
When in public, you should not expect to have any privacy as you are around people. However, you should be aware of when you are being recorded.
Having hidden security cameras in movie theaters can actually become an issue when it comes to privacy.
You should be aware that you are being recorded and can ask members whether or not cameras are present.
Are there security cameras in movie theaters?
For the most part, yes! There are security cameras in movie theaters that are either located on top of the screen, or in the booth behind viewers.
The cameras are used to monitor the audience and make sure that illegal piracy is not occurring. But these apply to modern theaters.
Older movie theaters might not be equipped with infrared cameras that are able to see in the dark and monitor the audience.
Cameras not only can be found on hallways and other points but around you as you sit back and enjoy. So be careful when sneaking food in!
But keep in mind that these cameras aren't used to spy on you. The theater has to protect themselves, and it can even be beneficial to you in more ways than you think!
Why are there security cameras in movie theaters?
Though you may think they just want to catch you red-handed full of candy you brought from home. The reality is that security cameras in movie theaters are placed for the security of the public and any piracy.
The red dot of a recording camera can be picked up by a night vision camera or infrared camera. Therefore discouraging watchers from videotaping.
Movie theaters also sell snacks. Meaning that if you bring some with you, there are not making money. Therefore keeping you from trying to bring in food when cameras are around.
Just think about it, you can't bring food to a restaurant. So why should you be allowed to bring food to a movie theater?
In addition to that, it can also benefit the people watching the movies. Having a place that is dark and quiet can end up leading to criminal activity.
Whether it be illegal to purchase drugs, human trafficking, and much more. Meaning that the footage can further aid authorities in searching for a culprit.
However, this can further be used to your advantage. A ticket to the theater might not be a solid alibi, but an hour and a half of footage of you watching a movie can be pretty convincing.
The security cameras in movie theaters can end up keeping you out of trouble, and cover for you when you need it. So let's look at the positive side of it!
Just like most places, inside the theater also needs to be covered by cameras, and monitored. Not just to know what is happening, but also to keep you safe.
How is it possible to have security cameras in movie theaters?
The night vision is one of the features that security cameras in movie theaters absolutely need to have. This is because of the poor light quality.
Whether in front or behind the audience, the screen is not a strong enough source of light to get to record without infrared lighting.
The usage of infrared lighting can film in poor lighting with good details and sharp imaging. This allows you to monitor what is happening in black and white.
In addition to that, the type of camera used is very crucial in this situation. One being the PTZ cameras or Pan, Tilt, and Zoom cameras.
These can all aid the monitoring of the audience as it can focus on one spot without distorting the whole image itself.
Making it a type of security camera that can be highly used in theaters to stop crimes, sneaking in of food and just for safety reasons as well.
But to give you some peace of mind, the usage of the cameras and the stored footage is not posted or seen by others.
Mainly the footage is seen by employees or authorities if necessary. So if you thought that you would one day come across yourself watching movies on the internet, you are pretty much safe. 
The legality
Last but not least, we should talk about the legalities behind security cameras in movie theaters. Whether they are allowed or not to record their audience.
Since it is a public setting, the theater is allowed to monitor the audience and what they are doing and getting into.
The theater also needs to monitor any stealing or criminal activity inside their theaters for your safety and theirs.
Therefore, it is legal for monitoring and having security cameras in movie theaters. And now you can be further aware of your lack of privacy while watching a movie.
The bottom line
Like it or not, when watching a movie you are in public. Meaning that the privacy you have watching movies on your couch is not the same as in a theater.
Theaters have to protect themselves even during showtimes. Piracy is a very big issue as it continues to occur. As well as any other issues that can occur when the lights go down.
So now you are aware that there are security cameras in movie theaters, so you can be extra careful when sneaking in some snacks in your bag! 