The placement of a security camera is extremely important for its optimal performance. You have to choose the perfect location, height, and area. Otherwise, you will struggle with obstructions, glare, blind spots, etc.
In this article, we will explain what to consider for security camera placement. We will share some important tips and placement options for optimal camera performance.
Security Camera Placement Tools You Need to Prepare
You need a few simple tools to install a security camera.
Power Drill: This is needed to make holes in the wall for securing the camera mount.
Screw Driver: You need screw drivers to tighten the screws and secure the camera.
Spirit Level: It’s needed to ensure the camera is placed perfectly.
Ladder: To reach the camera location
Fish Tape, Cable Clips, and Cable Ties: Needed for a wired camera to secure the cable along the wall.
Security Camera Indoor Placement
While placing indoor security cameras, consider these tips:
Place at a common location from where you can easily monitor people. You can install it in the hallway, entryway, stairs, etc.
Cover the front and backdoors as they are the entry points.
Install the camera at a 7-8 ft height to have a clear field of view and better coverage.
Consider corner locations as they cover a wider area of the house and multiple locations at the same time.
Do not point at lighting sources and windows to avoid glare.
You can place the camera in pet areas, the pantry, the medicine cabinets, etc.
You can also install cameras in the baby rooms and for elderly monitoring.
Security Camera Outdoor Placement
For an outdoor security camera, you can follow these tips.
Install at a height of more than 8ft. The camera easily covers the area and remains out of common reach.
Cover the front door to know who is entering the house and keep an eye on the delivery partners.
Your driveway and garage are excellent locations to capture cars near your house or in your driveway. It prevents car theft and robberies.
Make sure there are no blind spots. Place the camera in locations where there is no obstruction.
Never point the camera directly towards the East or West to avoid the sun.
In the case of the infrared camera, there are chances of infrared bounce due to a white wall, door, or pillar. Check if there is anything that could blind the camera.
Security Camera Placement Laws You Need to Consider
While placing a security camera, whether indoors or outdoors, you need to consider the privacy and placement laws.
Never point or install the camera in places where privacy is expected, such as bedrooms and bathrooms.
You cannot record audio without consent. Check the local laws.
Never point the camera directly at the neighbor’s property. Respect their privacy.
Only cover the areas that are important. You can cover some of the public space and the neighbor’s property only if required.
You cannot point at the neighbor’s window in any situation. It is considered a breach of privacy.
Display proper signage outdoors to let people know you are recording.
Recommended Security Cameras for Easy Placement
Reolink E1 Zoom
Reolink E1 Zoom offers flexible indoor placement. You can install it anywhere in the ceiling. You can even place it on a table, cupboard, or elevated surface. It records videos in 4K resolution and has infrared night vision. It automatically tracks the motion of objects with pan and tilt motion and covers 360⁰. It can also detect a person, a pet, and crying and send real-time alerts.
Reolink Altas PT Ultra
Altas PT Ultra is an incredible option for the outdoors. You can easily mount it on the ceiling or wall. It’s a solar/battery-powered security camera that lasts 500 days on a single charge. It records 4K videos and covers 360⁰. With ColorX night vision, it clearly captures true colors at night. It’s a weatherproof camera that works in the rain and snow. The Wi-Fi 6 support ensures smooth performance.
FAQs
Where not to put security cameras?
You cannot put security cameras at locations where privacy is expected, such as bedrooms, washrooms, and bathrooms. Do not point the camera directly at neighbors’ windows and private areas.
Can my neighbor put a camera facing my door?
In most cases, it is legal to have a camera facing the neighbor’s door with the intent of security. The door and driveway are public-facing areas, so there is no issue. However, the neighbor cannot record inside your home in any situation.
Final Words
Select a suitable location to place indoor and outdoor security cameras. You need to ensure the camera covers a wider area without any obstacles, glare, or blind spots. We have shared the key locations, placement tips, and other important things to consider while placing a security camera. Most importantly, you need to respect everyone’s privacy, whether you are installing indoors or outdoors. Check the local privacy and camera placement laws.