Guidelines for outdoor security camera placement
- Install cameras 8-10 feet from the ground. This height is low enough to capture fine details but high enough to be out of easy reach of thieves and vandals.
- Don't point cameras directly at the sun. ...
- Decide whether you want the camera to be visible or hidden. ...
- Protect the camera from the elements. ...
- Security cameras should be placed at the most obvious points of entry: ground-floor doors and windows, especially the main entryway and any side or back doors.
- Garages and driveways are considered entryways, so consider installing security cameras that cover those areas.
Where is the best place to mount a security camera?
Where to Place Home Security Cameras: Best Locations and Positions
- Install Surveillance Cameras at the Front Door. Around 34% of burglars enter through the front door, so you definitely need a security camera watching.
- Locate Home Security Cameras at the Back Door. ...
- Put CCTV Cameras Near Off-Street Windows. ...
- Other Places You May Consider to Put CCTV Cameras. ...
How to choose the best location to install security cameras?
- Front, back, and side doors. Burglars often enter a home through a front or back door. ...
- Off-street windows. Windows that don’t directly face a street may be more prone to break-ins due to their privacy. ...
- Driveways. If a burglar approaches your home, they may walk down your driveway or attempt to enter through your garage door. ...
- Common areas. ...
- Stairways. ...
What is the best way to mount a security camera?
Steps for installing a wired security camera
- Find a stable spot on the wall.
- Some cameras may require finding a stud, while others will come with drywall anchors.
- Check for existing wiring.
- Mark and drill the appropriate holes.
- Thread the wiring back through the wall to attach it to the monitoring source.
What is the best way to install security cameras?
- Typically, the most convenient installation option is a wireless security camera system. ...
- Wired security cameras are an excellent choice if you have a larger property to cover. ...
- Bundled home security camera systems are the best value. ...
- A motion-sensor feature, available for both indoor and outdoor cameras, saves recording space and energy. ...
Where should security cameras be placed outside?
Driveway As one of the entrances to any home, the driveway can also be a point of interest for nefarious parties. Therefore, outdoor security cameras should be placed near the garage door, where an expansive view of the area behind the driveway gate is possible.
Should security cameras be visible?
And should you do it in the first place? Visible security cameras deter crime. Burglars see cameras and decide to choose another home to rob. However, visible cameras also mean that the burglars may simply steal or tamper with them, still choosing that particular house to rob.
Can I put security cameras outside my house?
In the US, it's usually legal for you to install a residential security camera and record video. But US citizens are also guaranteed a reasonable expectation of privacy, which extends to video recording. That means you can't record people anywhere that is typically considered a private place (e.g. the bathroom).
Should you hide outdoor security cameras?
Ultimately, whether you choose a visible or hidden security camera system is up to you, but typically we recommend going with hidden. Not only will a hidden camera make it harder to steal, but it will provide inconspicuous protection so burglars don't simply avoid where the camera is facing in search of a blind spot.
How can I hide my outdoor security cameras?
Try these common items in your house that could help to hide a security camera inside and outside easily:Book shelves.Smoke detectors.Desk plants.Tissue boxes.Stuffed teddy bears.Fake rocks.Fake hanging potted plant.
How many outdoor cameras do I need?
As a general rule, 3-4 cameras for the following areas are a great start for most homes: A doorbell camera to keep an eye on the front door and packages. 1-2 outdoor cameras for the front and back of the house. An indoor camera inside to watch valuables, kids, or pets.
Are Neighbours allowed to record you?
For the most part, your neighbor is legally allowed to have security cameras installed on their property, even if those cameras are aimed at your property. However, your neighbor does not have the right to record you or anyone else without consent in areas with reasonable expectation of privacy.
How High Should security cameras be mounted?
Install cameras 8-10 feet from the ground. This height is low enough to capture fine details but high enough to be out of easy reach of thieves and vandals. Don't point cameras directly at the sun. Bright light causes glare and high contrast in your footage, which makes it hard to tell what's going on.
Is it legal for Neighbours to have CCTV?
It is perfectly legal for a resident to install CCTV (even with recording and playback capabilities) and, in the normal course of events, this will be done to protect one's own property against the threat of intruders and trespassers.
Where is the best place to mount a security camera?
The Best Places for a Security Camera in Your HomeFront door.Doorbell camera.Easy access points like a backdoor or first floor windows.Garages and driveways.Front and backyards.
How do you disguise a camera?
How to Hide a Camera in Plain Sight: Common Household ItemsArtificial Plants: Place the camera in a flowerpot or a vase and use leaves as a concealer.Curtain Rods: Small cameras placed high up are less likely to be detected.More items...•
Can you mount a security camera on a tree?
In order to attach them to a tree or branch, you may be required to install an adapter that will allow the security camera to remain fastened to them. Cameras such as the Blink XT2 and Ring Spotlight Cam come to mind, as they're designed to withstand outdoor weather — while still monitoring your home at safe distances.
Do visible cameras deter crime?
Do security cameras deter crime? Studies do show that having a surveillance camera system results in a 50% reduction in crime or more. With the extra benefit of experience, you will have valid evidence of criminal activity if it takes place.
Where should you put cameras in your house?
The Best Places for a Security Camera in Your HomeFront door.Doorbell camera.Easy access points like a backdoor or first floor windows.Garages and driveways.Front and backyards.
How high should I mount my security camera?
Install cameras 8-10 feet from the ground. This height is low enough to capture fine details but high enough to be out of easy reach of thieves and vandals. Don't point cameras directly at the sun. Bright light causes glare and high contrast in your footage, which makes it hard to tell what's going on.
How do you detect if there is a camera in the room?
Even well-hidden cameras will have a small amount of reflective glass from the lens, Bombace said. “If you use flashlights and shine them on something you think could possibly hide the camera, you will see a reflection in there, which is a pretty good way of detecting if there's a camera,” he said.
How to place a security camera on a door?
Instead, put them a foot or two next to a door or window with the camera angled down toward the entrance. Don’t be afraid to make your security cameras visible; it may help scare off potential prowlers.
Why is my home security camera choppy?
It’s important that your home security cameras have reliable access to a strong Wi-Fi signal to capture and relay footage. Without an internet connection, the camera could disconnect from your home security system. If the Wi-Fi signal is weak, the video footage may be choppy or distorted.
What do burglars do in a home?
If a burglar enters your home, they may be inclined to search for valuables in specific areas, such as the living room and master bedroom. Use cameras to watch over these spaces. Stairways. Some homes have balconies or basements with staircases that lead to entry points, which burglars can use to get inside.
Why are windows that don't face the street more prone to break-ins?
Windows that don’t directly face a street may be more prone to break-ins due to their privacy. Install exterior cameras above these windows, or use interior cameras that face the windows in question. Driveways.
Do home security cameras rotate?
Home security cameras are a great addition to any home security system, providing you 24/7 access to your home, regardless of your location. Home security novices often make the mistake of installing just one camera. However, most cameras can rotate only so much and zoom only so far. Like door and window sensors, ...
Where should security cameras be placed?
For the best view of the room, consider placing some security cameras on taller furniture or mounted to the ceiling corner.
How to keep internet connection strong with outdoor security cameras?
Keep the Internet connection strong no matter where you place your outdoor security cameras by purchasing the Blue Extender + Chime.
Why do security cameras need to be higher?
Wait, didn’t we earlier say to seek out an overhang or elevated vantage point? Placing security cameras higher offers a lot of benefits: they’re out of easy reach for thieves and the positioning offers a wide range of view.
What is the best way to protect yourself from intruders?
Wireless outdoor cameras act as the first line of defense against intruders. They can capture their faces as they case your home and notify you of unexpected activities. Cameras can even deter potential thieves. Keep the following in mind when determining the best outdoor camera placement.
How far can a blue camera detect motion?
For example, the Blue by ADT outdoor camera has a 130° field of view and can detect motion within five-meters.
What happens if you underestimate the camera range?
If you underestimate the cameras’ abilities, you may buy an unnecessarily high number. If you overestimate, you risk potential blind spots. For this reason, find out the monitoring range of the outdoor cameras and map them accordingly for complete coverage.
How to protect your neighbors privacy?
Consider telling your next door neighbors that you’ve set up cameras and then sharing the live footage on your mobile app. This transparency can assure them that you’re respecting their privacy while helping to enhance overall neighborhood safety.
Security cameras should be placed at the most obvious points of entry: ground-floor doors and windows, especially the main entryway and any side or back doors
To avoid drawing attention to themselves, many burglars will aim for the entry points to your home that look natural. The front and back doors are the most obvious, because if a burglar confidently approaches one of these doors, they won’t automatically arouse the suspicion of passersby.
Garages and driveways are considered entryways, so consider installing security cameras that cover those areas
Your cars and garage present attractive targets to criminals. Cars are often left unlocked, sometimes helpfully with the keys still inside, and garages are full of tools and sporting gear.
When placing a security camera, consider details such as visibility, height off the ground, and more
Once you’ve identified both the best home security system for you and the best locations for your cameras, you’ll have to consider the mounting methods and positions.
Installing Security Cameras Outside the Home
Outdoor security camera placement is vital to ensuring truly robust home security, but it can be a nuisance to find somewhere appropriate to place it.
Installing Security Cameras Inside the Home
In the unfortunate event that an intruder does enter the property, be prepared with an in home security camera positioned in each of the most vulnerable spots inside the home.
Where Not to Install Security Cameras
A truly effective home security system isn’t achieved by placing as many house cameras as possible. In fact, there are some locations that it might be wise to flat out avoid.
Positioning to Perfection: Security Camera Placement Tips to Keep in Mind
You now know where’s best to place your cameras and where’s best to avoid, but there’s a couple things you should bear in mind when trying to get the most from your surveillance.
Conclusion
There is no one-size-fits-all solution to home security camera placement. Every house is different. But there are certainly threads of logic you can follow, and places commonly associated with the most advantageous positions for camera placement both inside and outside the home.
How to protect outdoor security cameras?
Top outdoor security cameras have ample weather- and waterproofing, but they are not all equal. Choose a camera that's appropriately rated for your climate, and place it under eaves or in another semi-protected area if you can.
Where to put cameras for kids?
Placing cameras in gathering points like the kitchen or living room is a great way to see if the kids are doing what they're supposed to do, if the babysitter is attentive, what the pets are getting into, or to check on household help like cleaners and repairmen. Consider prioritizing any rooms that have large ground-floor windows — that way you can see if anyone tampers with them or uses one as a break-in point.
Why do burglars use cameras in garages?
Garages are a common target of burglars because they're one of the weakest entry points. A camera pointed at your garage and/or driveway keeps a watchful eye on bikes, tools, grills, sports equipment, cars and everyone that handles them. If your garage is detached, the camera helps you stay connected. If the garage is attached, the extra layer of security monitors another possible entryway into your home. If there's a gate at the end of your driveway, you may want a camera there to spot anyone attempting to get in.
How to wash out footage from indoor cameras?
Angle for indirect light. Again, direct light will wash out your footage. With indoor cameras, be mindful of lamps, light fixtures and bright windows. Avoid facing your camera directly toward any of these light sources.
How to test a camera before installing?
Test your equipment before committing to the full install. Operate the camera in a simple testing spot to make sure it functions as expected. If possible, perform a dry run in the camera's intended area (mount it with tape, a single nail or another temporary fix) so you can monitor and evaluate the feed. Can you see everything you want to see? Is the Wi-Fi signal strong enough? Is there glare or an obstacle blocking the field of view?
How to minimize glare from a camera?
If it's necessary to point a camera out the window, positioning the lens as close as possible to the glass and/or backlighting the outdoor area (perhaps with motion detector lights) are two glare-minimizing measures to try. It can also be helpful if your camera has wide dynamic range (WDR) technology.
What is the difference between battery powered and wired cameras?
Battery powered outdoor cameras allow more flexibility for placement, while wired ones will need to be close to a power source.
How do outdoor security cameras help?
Well-placed outdoor security cameras can help in three major areas: Deter would-be burglars. Identify intruders that ignore or don’t notice cameras. Increase chances of catching them . The places you want to install your cameras might not necessarily be the best place for them.
What is visible security?
Visible Security Deters Burglars. Anything you can do to prevent a break-in is worth the effort and expense. Average burglars only have a few minutes to get in and out, so the less obstacles and risks they face, the easier their job is. And it’s your job to make them skip your home and move on, away from your property.
How many burglars get into a garage?
Believe it or not, 9% of all house burglars get in through an adjacent garage in homes that have one. This is usually their last attempt after failing to break in through the doors and windows. Consider pointing a security camera at your garage doors.
How many burglars break into a house from the first floor?
Around 23% of burglars will break in to a home from a first floor window if they can’t access the property through the doors. They prefer the windows that are not facing the street or are at the back of the house. If you have such windows then this is the third place to aim your outdoor cameras.
Why use a wide angle camera?
A wide angle camera, for example, will cover multiple points, and thus reduce the need for additional cameras. However, wide angle cameras will also make everything look smaller and record less detail. You need to think about lighting as well. Too much light or reflections can mess with the recorded footage.
Do law abiding people think of burglars?
Law abiding people don’t tend to consider the mind of a burglar. We often like to think of them as lazy opportunists, but that’s not the full picture. Many are opportunists, but they also know what they want to do and how they’re going to do it. Most of them know more about home security than the average home owner. It’s their job after all. If you have poorly placed outdoor security cameras, or a dummy burglar alarm fitted, the experienced thief will know about it. The only way to thwart house burglars is to deter them the best we can. About 83 percent of opportunistic burglars will determine whether a property has an adequate home security setup before committing the crime. Out of those, 60 percent would look for another, easier alternative if they deemed the property too secure. [2], [3]
Is a home that displays some form of security system less attractive to would-be and active burglars?
A home that displays some form of security system is less attractive to would-be and active burglars. This is according to a study funded by AIREF, and released by the University of North Carolina. [1]
Install Surveillance Cameras at the Front Door
Around 34% of burglars enter through the front door, so you definitely need a security camera watching. Actually, this is the most important security camera placement outside home. Place your camera at second-floor level to avoid a burglar from knocking out your camera.
Locate Home Security Cameras at the Back Door
Up to 22% of thieves invade your house through the back door, so you would benefit from using a camera here. This includes side doors as well. Actually, you should attach security camera to every door you have in case of intrusion. Again, try to keep it out of the reach of humans or things they can throw at a camera.
Put CCTV Cameras Near Off-Street Windows
About 23% of the burglars will also break into a home by entering through a rear window, away from the view of the street. They decrease their chances of getting caught by being away from any cars passing by. So you can point a camera to off-street windows to keep those windows safe from thieves and vandals.
Other Places You May Consider to Put CCTV Cameras
After securing the front door, back door and off-street windows with security cameras, you have prevented about 80% of the burglars from breaking into your home.
1. Forget to Secure Indoor and Outdoor Surveillance Cameras
One of the biggest mistakes people make is not securing their security devices, which means surveillance cameras can be easily tampered with. So where to place outdoor home security cameras to avoid possible vandalism? Generally, put the camera 9 feet above the ground will be safe.
2. Think Cameras are Able to Multitask
Cameras are not able to multitask. You need to decide what task you want your camera to perform when considering the placement. People often forget the camera cannot pick up someone’s face, license plate, and the house across the street all at once, if they don’t have a plan of where to place home security cameras ahead.
3. Place Cameras at the Highest Point
Many people place their cameras at the highest point of their property, thinking it is the best site to put CCTV camera to view full place. While it will give you a larger view, you will not get a very detailed look at any criminal’s features.
Where to put a camera in your home?
Placing a camera in a place that can not only watch your back yard, but keep an eye on whoever makes it through your back door is a must. Off-street Windows. Burglars use first-floor windows to enter your home 23% of the time, and many of these windows aren’t the windows on the front of your house.
What is the best place to put a camera on a burglar?
These places will maximize your security potential, help you reduce your chance of getting broken into, or increase your chance of helping the police find the burglar. Front Door. This is the most essential entrance to protect, as 34% of break-ins occur via the front door . Placing a camera either above or next to the front door can go a long way ...
Why is it important to think about what you want your camera to capture?
One of the reasons it’s important to think about what you want your camera to capture is because you want to avoid the instinct to place your camera far enough away that it captures everything.
What is the road to your home?
Driveway. Your driveway is the road to your home. Whether it’s by car or by foot, most people make their way to your home via your driveway. Pointing a camera at your driveway can give you a good idea of who is even thinking of making their way to your home.
Why do you need a camera near a window?
Placing a camera near these windows will help you eliminate the second-most used entrance for burglars.
What are the common mistakes people make when installing a security camera?
These are common mistakes people make when installing or placing their camera, and they can hurt your camera’s ability to do the job you need it to do. Put the camera up high, but not too high.
What is the most difficult part of buying a camera?
The more difficult part is that a lot of cameras are built for one use, either outside or inside, which makes buying more affordable bundles a non-starter.
What do security cameras do?
Here are some of the most common things people use security cameras for: Securing areas of the property that are concealed or would otherwise make an inviting entry point such as a basement door or a copse of trees that conceals a part of a fence.
What is a ring indoor camera?
The Ring Indoor Cam is a wonderful all-purpose indoor monitoring device. Use it to keep an eye on the dogs or the inside of your house while you’re at work, or even a way to monitor what’s happening while you’re home in another room. Basically the Indoor Cam works great for any purpose that doesn’t require night vision or thermal detection and can even be linked to outdoor cameras or the Ring Alarm to act as a supplemental security camera.
What is the camera 5 on a ring doorbell?
Camera 5 - Spotlight Cam: This camera is placed to keep an eye on the driveway and front yard, covering the area not seen by the Ring Video Doorbell. The Spotlight and motion detection features will flood the driveway with light at night, startling intruders and making it safer for the homeowners when they get out of their cars at night.
How to make ring camera work better?
Make sure your wifi is as strong as possible: Ring cameras work better the stronger and faster your wifi network is, so be sure and use network stretchers such as the Ring Chime Pro to make sure you have a clear and strong signal. Click here for more information on the Ring Chime Pro.
Why is my camera not at the right angle?
One of the most common mistakes people make when mounting their cameras is to put them too high or too low. Too high and your camera may not be at the right angle to catch people’s faces. Too low and they become vulnerable to tampering. Always use the Live View function to make sure your camera is at the right angle.
What is ring security?
Ring security cameras offer a wide array of features as well as peace of mind when it comes to monitoring and protecting your home and loved ones. It’s important though, to know how to properly place your cameras around your home. Considerations like these determine where and how your cameras should be placed:
What is a cover door?
Covering obvious routes of entry such as the front or back door or first floor windows.
