A device having a camera unit for recording images of the exterior of a motor vehicle, includes a support assembly accommodating the camera unit which is movable between a standby position and an active position, a cover element and a movement mechanism. The movement mechanism includes a first pivot element, which is pivotably supported on the support assembly such that it can pivot about a first rotational axle, and which is connected to a first articulation axle of the camera unit in an articulated manner, a second pivot element, which is pivotably supported on the support assembly, such that it can pivot about a second rotational axle, and which is connected to a second articulation axle of the camera unit, and a third pivot element, which is pivotably supported on the support assembly such that it can pivot about the first rotational axle, and which is connected to the cover element.