We have cameras, but the pieces-o-crap that ripped us off wore hoodies and crept around so all we had is proof that there were two of them and time and date. One of them is seen unscrewing the flood light in the carport. I asked the cop if he was going to check for prints and he just sort of laughed. Social media is full of pictures/videos of thieves in hoodies asking "do you know this person". Main use of the camera's now is watching the coyotes sniffing around the chicken coop at night.
Yes, "Security" Camera is a bit of a stretch, especially if they are visible cameras(can be seen) because thieves will make sure faces are covered and clothing is generic
But visible cameras can, for sure, be a deterrent for casual "thieves"
Hidden cameras can work but a "professional thief" would always try to keep face and clothing generic
I used to install hidden cameras in business, bars and lounges usually, but to watch the staff at the tills mostly
These recordings are not admissible in criminal cases in most areas but can be used in "wrongful dismissal" cases
The reason they are not admissible in criminal cases is because there must be a sign posted that you are being video recorded if you are in a place where you are legally allowed to be, and no cameras are visible, if other cameras are visible then hidden camera video is usually admissible, even though they don't show up on a security camera monitor.
So staff member would be shown the video of them pocketing money instead of ringing it in, and fired, if they tried to get a wrongful dismissal case started then that video could be used as owner's defense in the dismissal.
But in general cameras are better than no cameras, it may not "catch" thieves, but it may, and being able to look back at what was going on around your home after something, anything, happens is better than not having that option