Once you have your camera set up and saving a file on the schedule you want, building the video can be easy. About the easiest I have found is software from Sebectec.com, which has a free version that will build the video. Then play it in any mpg or avi player. Another possibility is Windows Movie Maker, almost as easy. The camera does not make much difference, other than the obvious that it should make at least acceptable pictures. But in a video the fine differences are not seen as much. Others can advise you on the camera; I have a Foscam, but certainly there are higher quality models that others might recommend. Have not had much trouble with the Foscam, but it is infrared sensitive, so it will do some funny things to color.