After buying a security camera, the most common question in the minds of buyers is where they should place it. The correct placement of the camera is important for optimal visibility, wider coverage, and to comply with the regulations.
In this article, we are going to discuss security camera placement in detail. We will talk about where you can and can’t place security cameras. We will also share the important considerations for this purpose and laws.
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Where to Place Security Cameras?
While installing outdoor and indoor security cameras, you need to select specific positions where you think surveillance is important.
Outdoor Security Camera Placement
You can install an outdoor security camera at the following places.
Doors: Front and back doors are the best places to install a security camera. You can keep an eye on the visitors, talk to them, and ensure security at the entrances.
Driveway: You might want to protect your vehicle from intruders or even prevent others from parking in the spot and stealing. A driveway camera is a nice way to know who’s coming.
Garage: To ensure the security of your vehicle inside the garage and prevent thieves, people install cameras in their garages. They can keep an eye on their vehicle from any location.
Backyard: It is one of the most overlooked places, and that’s the reason it’s the favorite one for burglars and thieves. Cover your backyard using a security camera to deter crimes.
Pool: It’s an area that needs proper attention to prevent accidents. A security camera keeps you aware about who’s around the pool, including your pets.
Indoor Security Camera Placement
The following are the best spots for indoor security cameras.
Entrance: Place a camera at the entrance to see who is coming and leaving the house. You can also cover the hallway with the camera.
Stairs: These are essential to be covered with cameras. You can keep an eye on the kids and elderly and act immediately in case of an accident.
Living Room: The valuables inside the living room can be protected by the camera. Secondly, it’s not a private space, so the installation of cameras is suitable.
Baby Room: For infants, a security camera or baby camera is a must. You can look after the baby from any part of the house and be there when your baby needs you.
Where Not to Place Security Cameras?
Always consider privacy while selecting a location for the security camera. If people expect privacy there, it is not the right place. For instance, you can’t place a security camera in bedrooms, bathrooms, changing areas, etc. You must respect the privacy of the family members, visitors, and workers.
Secondly, do not install security cameras where there is no need. Focus main areas for surveillance in the first place.
Consideration of Home Security Camera Placement
Here are some important considerations for selecting the best place to install a security camera.
Choosing Proper Cameras
According to the placement, you have to choose a suitable camera. For instance, you need to choose an indoor or outdoor security camera. If the outdoor area is large, you should go with a dual-lens or PT camera to cover a wider area. Choose a suitable camera according to your needs.
Number of Cameras
According to the area you want to cover, select the number of cameras. If there are too many cameras needed, the best option would be to go with a dual-lens camera as it will cover a 180⁰ field of view, and you will need fewer cameras. You can also go with pan-and-tilt cameras.
Calculate the number of cameras you need according to the places you want to cover.
Visibility vs. Discretion
Consider whether you want to show the security camera by making it visible or want to hide the camera.
Some cameras are visible, and they are prone to vandalism, tampering, and even theft. However, they can deter crimes.
On the other hand, hidden cameras can record everything without others knowing. They do not deter crimes but capture every moment. However, they can be against the local laws.
Reflection and Glare
At some locations, you will experience reflection and glare. So, the cameras won’t be able to capture clear videos. You will see distortion, extra brightness, and other issues. In such cases, you need to select a different location. You can also change brightness and contrast settings and adjust lighting in the area.
Height and Angle
The height of the security camera should be at least 8ft for optimal coverage and to prevent vandalism and tampering. Keep it away from the reach of people.
You need to adjust the angle of the camera to cover the area you want. Make sure you are capturing the faces and bodies of the people and the license plates of the vehicles.
Power and Connection
You also need to provide power to the camera. If it is a DC-powered camera, you need to have an AC outlet nearby. If you have a PoE camera, you need to lay an Ethernet cable. The easiest option would be a battery-powered camera with a solar panel.
If it’s a Wi-Fi camera, make sure it’s within Wi-Fi range.
Regular Maintenance
You also need to do regular maintenance, so select a location where maintenance is easy. You need to clean the lens, casing, wires, etc. And in case of any problem, you might need to take it out.
Easy to Place Security Camera Recommendation
Reolink Argus PT
Reolink Argus PT is a Wi-Fi pan and tilt camera that offers 2K+ resolution. It can smartly detect the motion of objects and send instant alerts to your devices. It’s also a battery/solar-powered security camera with color night vision. You can use it indoors or outdoors.
Pros:
- Dual-band Wi-Fi for stable and fast connection
- Color and black-and-white night vision
- AI detection and alerts without any subscription
- Deters intruders via spotlights and siren
Cons:
- Not IP67-rated but has a weatherproof design
If you want better resolution and a panoramic view, you can go with Argus 4 Pro.
Reolink Argus 4 Pro
Reolink Argus 4 Pro is a dual-lens security camera. It offers a 180⁰ wide field of view at 4K resolution. It is a Wi-Fi 6 camera that ensures fast and reliable performance. It also has Reolink ColorX technology to offer true colors at night. Its rechargeable batteries last 30% more and can be charged using a solar panel.
Pros:
- Crystal-clear wide view without any blind spots
- Enhanced motion detection with 180⁰ ultra-wide-angle PIR sensor
- AI analysis for accurate real-time alerts
- IP-66 rated to work in all weather conditions
Cons:
- Minimal distortion
Security Camera Placement Laws
Make sure to consider the federal and state laws related to the placement of the security cameras.
Federal Laws
There is no federal law specifically created for the placement of security cameras. However, there are other laws, such as privacy laws and consent laws, that govern the placement of a security camera.
You can’t place a security camera at any place where privacy is expected. For instance, you can’t place it in bathrooms, bedrooms, changing rooms, hotel rooms, etc. You need to ensure the privacy of others.
Secondly, if you are recording the conversation through the camera, you need the consent of either one or all for recording. It depends on the state you are living in.
State Laws
You should check the state laws related to the placement of security cameras.
You cannot cover the property of the neighbor, such as the door, front yard, backyard, etc. Place the camera in such a way that it does not record any portion of the neighbor’s property.
Moreover, do not cover public areas, such as streets, sidewalks, etc. You must respect the privacy of passersby.
And make sure to display the signage to tell people that they are being recorded in this area.
FAQs
- Should security cameras be visible?
Yes, it should be visible, and there should be proper signage. The privacy of passersby, visitors, and other people should not be invaded.
- Where is the best level to position the camera?
Install it at 8ft above the ground. It will prevent vandalism and tampering. Make sure the camera can capture a wider area and there are no blind spots.
- Should I get my security cameras professionally installed or DIY?
It depends on the camera you are using. Battery-powered and PoE cameras are easier to install. You can install them on your own if you know the DIY basics. In the case of a complete security camera system, you might need an expert if you don’t know how to lay the cable.
Conclusion
Security camera placement plays an important role in capturing the best footage. You have to select a suitable location from where it can cover a wider area and record everything clearly. Actually, Reolink camera is an excellent option.
We have shared some important considerations that you should remember while choosing a location. Moreover, check the local and federal laws to ensure compliance.
