The SAS use photgraphic and video cameras extenisvely in intelligence gathering operations, so it's actually quite realistic. It'd also be good for tension in a mission. Picture this:
You're deep behind enemy lines, and patrols are actively searching for you after your unit was found and split. You may be the only operative left... and you've got a job to do. Creeping up to the perimeter fence, you see the Scud launchers, and realise you've struck gold. With deliberately slow movements you place your weapon down and take out your camera. The pictures are of vital importance, as those missiles may have NBC warheads, but you cannot tell from this distance. When the film's developed back at base it'll become clear.
You snap away, taking care to get good shots of the vehicles- then you hear the sound of an enemy patrol somewhere in the bushes behind you. There isn't enough time to get any more shots, there's not even enough time to replace the camera equipment stealthily. You cram the expensive and delicate equipment in your pack and snatch up your HK, before it starts to rain AK74 bullets...
Okay, so I got a little carried away ;D
But you get the idea.