With too many wifi/ip cameras that can snap pics and upload them automatically to the a cloud it's rarely required to involve a laptop except to view.
I'm guessing you were unaware there were such things today.
Bob
Hi,
Because every now and then an armed robbery occurs, I was thinking of a measure to be able to take a picture with a camera set outside the office yet controlled by a laptop/desktop of a prospective customer standing at the front door, to then sent it to an online image storage service, so that afterwards the door can be opened.
This is how I picture being able to do it:
http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/841/6rsk.jpg/
1.-What kind of camera with what specs should I look for to be able to take pictures from inside the office using the laptop despite having the camera placed outside?
2.-Will I need any additional software?
3.-Any recommendations on the online image storage service?
I don't have questions regarding the door or being able to open it using a computer as that is already quite common over here. Thank you and please let me know if you need additional details.

Chowhound
Comic Vine
GameFAQs
GameSpot
Giant Bomb
TechRepublic