I like the camera location and can understand the approach using USB camera and laptop for recording (low cost solution). Does it work above 10,000' (if laptop has a hard drive)?
My approach is a little different. While waiting for digital HD small cameras, HD digital VCRs and better digital interfaces to show up; I am installing an interim step using analog cameras and interfaces. The system will accept up to 4 cameras (D1 resolution) in 4 chosen locations, uses a small mobile DVR to record all 4 to SDHC card accessable and changeable in the cockpit. Also on/off control in the cockpit. The DVR also accepts audio input from the intercom system for radio calls and voice narration (similar to what you did). Further the DVR records GPS location and several simple sensors (sort of like a small black box). Any music (if wanted) can be added in POST.
The 4 locations I am using: right wing (access cover like yours) facing forward, left wing (access cover like yours)facing aft, wide angle VS tip location facing forward (like Groucho) , and cockpit (adjust to desired location).
I will have a MFD monitor on the right side (RV-6A) (or maybe just another MGL EFIS panel) which will allow viewing of the video streams as well as in flight 'entertainment'. I plan to have an SD card, pre-recorded, for flight briefing for PAX, different briefing for females & for males.
All 4 video streams will also be fed to an MGL Avionics Explorer EFIS panel on the pilot side and can be displayed there. Camera 1, forward facing, might eventually be a FLIR camera for added safety & is allowed as a background image on the EFIS screens.
The cameras selected all have CCD sensors as opposed to CMOS sensors to minimize the usual fast moving object (prop smearing) artifacts; and can have RS-485 control to select various camera settings.
GH