This is a type of lens whose aperture automatically adjusts, i.e opens and closes, in reaction to the lighting. It maintains optimum light to ensure there is proper exposure in the video footage such that the video does not appear washed out or very dark. Security cameras with the auto iris feature are equipped with the ability to compensate for any variations in the light levels, which is particularly useful. This allows for security cameras that are placed outdoors or in an area exposed to high light to adjust accordingly from the aperture in bright sunlight to that in darkness or at night. The circuit of the auto iris is usually connected to a motorized drive that is responsible for the iris on the camera to open and close. The ability of the iris to close protects the camera from being damaged by bright sunlight.