Home Inspecting and Thermal Image Camera's WHAT IS IT A thermal image camera is capable of detecting very small differences in temperature by capturing infrared radiation from the surface of objects to create an image illustrating the temperature differences. WHAT IT ISN'T There are some common misconceptions that I want to clear up now. Thermal image cameras cannot see through or into walls, they cannot detect moisture or missing insulation.  We wish it was that simple but it is not. DOES YOUR HOME INSPECTOR USE A THERMAL IMAGE.