Dashcam is something I am looking as well, but not just for finding goodies on the curb. I also thought to some DYI solutions, but none were good enough. Remember that dashcams are made to record on the long time and less than perfect road/weather condition. Just using an old cell phone and a static stand would not be a good idea, because they're not made for recording hour long videos. Not sure that I would use a webcam or something made for indoor use on a dashboard by a hot sunny day or when it is below freezing point.