Security camera placement guidelines: Where to place them

Security camera placement guidelines where to place them.

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Don’t let blind spots become crime hotspots!

Security cameras are your partners in crime prevention. But only if they’re placed right!

In this blog, we give you the best security camera placement guidelines so you get high-quality clear video footage.

We provide detailed guidance on optimal camera placement—whether outdoors, indoors, or in corridors—ensuring comprehensive coverage for effective real-time monitoring, seamless recording, and easy retrospective review of activities.

Get ready to improve overall safety and security for your property, employees, and visitors through the most effective camera placement recommendations by security experts, top-notch remote video monitoring specialists, and much more!

General guidelines of security camera placement.

Security camera mounted under the green ceiling of a parking garage, overseeing the area.

 

  • Understand the purpose of the camera. 
  • Study your property layout.
  • Lighting conditions.
  • Leave no blind spots.
  • Broader field of view. 
  • Comply with the security camera placement laws.

 

Understand the purpose of the camera:

First off, what’s the purpose of your camera? Are you aiming to deter crime, monitor activity, or gather evidence? 

According to a study from the University of North Carolina, nearly 60% of convicted burglars said they would choose another target if they spotted a CCTV security camera. 

Talk about a win! Knowing your camera’s purpose helps guide its placement and functionality.

Study your property layout:

Next, let’s talk about property layout. You need to analyze your space like a hawk—identify entry points, blind spots, and high-traffic areas.

It’s all about strategy. A thorough site audit will help you assess existing infrastructure and pinpoint the best spots for your cameras.

Lighting conditions:

Now, lighting conditions are key. Not every area will be bathed in perfect light, especially after sunset. If a corner of your yard looks like a scene from a horror movie, you might need additional illumination. 

A report from the Security Industry Association suggests that 40% of outdoor crimes occur in poorly lit areas. 

So, set up those floodlights and illuminate every dark corner!

Leave no blind spots:

Diagram comparing good and best camera placement angles to avoid blind spots.
Image courtesy of crossbreedholsters.

 

When it comes to security, blind spots can be a real problem. The goal is to ensure that your cameras cover all critical areas without leaving any gaps. Corners and entrances are key locations where surveillance is essential.

Take a close look around your property. Are there areas obscured by buildings, trees, or other objects? These can create hidden spots where activity might go unnoticed.

For example, in a warehouse, tall shelves can create significant blind spots behind them. It’s important to position cameras to cover these areas effectively.

By planning ahead and ensuring comprehensive coverage, you’ll be much better equipped to monitor all activities and enhance your overall security.

Field of view:

Let’s talk about the field of view. It’s a crucial aspect of your security setup that you can’t overlook. You want to make sure each camera provides optimal coverage to catch every little movement.

A wide-angle lens is your best friend here; it allows you to capture as much action as possible while keeping the focus sharp.

Graphical representation of security camera placement showing multiple cameras' field of view overlaps.
Image courtesy of researchgate.

 

Think about how you position your cameras. Aim for overlapping fields of view, which will help you track moving objects seamlessly.

This way, if something—or someone—slips out of one camera’s view, another can pick it up without missing a beat.

A well-placed camera can cover multiple angles, which means you won’t need to install a dozen cameras to get the job done.

By strategically placing just a few, you can create a robust security network that keeps a close eye on your property. So, take a moment to plan your camera placements wisely, and you’ll be well on your way to effective video surveillance!

Security camera placement laws:

Finally, be mindful of privacy concerns. Be aware of local laws and regulations regarding surveillance.

Respecting privacy is essential for fostering trust in your security system according to legislation of federal, state, county, city, and even specific business rules. 

So, ensure your cameras are positioned to monitor your property without invading your neighbor’s personal space.

Be sure to check out our popular blog, where we cover the essential dos and don’ts of placing security cameras in public spaces, private properties, workplaces, and the legalities surrounding hidden cameras.

***Consult a security professional to assist with any or all of the steps outlined, ensuring you’re fully protected every step of the way.

Where’s the best place to install security cameras?

Where’s the best place to install security cameras? Whether you’re setting up cameras indoors or outdoors, placement is key.

First, decide between a dome camera, ideal for discreet monitoring, or a PTZ camera, perfect for outdoor use with its pan, tilt, and zoom features. Proper positioning ensures optimal coverage and protection.

Where to place outdoor security cameras for your business?

  • Parking lots.
  • Exterior parameter.
  • Outdoor security camera placement.

 

Parking Lots:

Enhance parking lot security by keeping an eye on vehicle traffic; place cameras at the parking lot’s entrance and exit. Focus on spots where vehicles tend to linger, especially near these critical points.

Example:

For instance, a shopping mall should have cameras positioned at both the parking lot entrance and exit, as well as in sections where cars are regularly parked.

Exterior Perimeters:

Position cameras along the perimeter of your property to detect any unauthorized access. This camera placement becomes even more powerful when you top up the cameras with advanced video analytics.

Illustration of security camera placement guidelines in a parking lot.

 

The image above highlights the importance of strategically placed security cameras along the perimeter.

With advanced AI technology, the system triggers alarms instantly upon detecting threats like loitering, tailgating, violence, firearms, and more.

Add surveillance on loading docks and delivery areas to monitor all incoming and outgoing shipments.

Don’t forget to consider adjacent spaces, like alleyways or vacant lots, and install cameras to keep an eye on those potentially vulnerable zones.

Outdoor security camera layout:

Aerial view layout showing security camera coverage zones in an urban area.

 

In the above outdoor security camera placement diagram, you  can see a holistic surveillance approach for an outdoor area, like a shopping mall.

For broader coverage, multiple cameras are strategically placed with overlapping fields of view, minimizing blind spots and ensuring unobstructed surveillance.

Whenever an object is occluded by a blocked view from one camera, the system automatically switches to another camera that captures the action. This guarantees that CCTV monitoring remains uninterrupted.

To enhance surveillance quality, these security cameras are equipped with advanced video analytics, enabling the detection and tracking of moving individuals or vehicles, ensuring no critical moments are missed.

When an alarm is triggered, live remote video monitoring operators can seamlessly switch between camera feeds, gaining real-time situational awareness from multiple angles.

This system strengthens security with comprehensive real-time monitoring, enhances tracking accuracy, and enables rapid responses to incidents, ensuring a safer environment.

Indoor security camera placement for businesses:

● Entry Points:

Security camera monitoring a vehicle entrance barrier with sunlight flare.

 

Cover all exterior doors! Yes, I mean all of them. This includes your main entrance, side doors, and even those emergency exits that seem like nobody ever uses (they might!). A camera at each door ensures that you have a clear view of every face that enters or exits.

Don’t ignore the windows! Ground-level windows can be like an open invitation for trouble. If they’re easy to access from the outside, you better believe you need a camera on them. Criminals always check the unlocked, unmonitored windows first!

Loading docks and bays—this is often where the sneaky stuff happens. During loading and unloading, it’s crucial to have cameras in place to monitor not just deliveries but also to prevent unauthorized access. Trust me, the last thing you want is to find out that your shipment went “missing” because no one was watching.

Example: A retail store should have cameras installed at all entrances and exits, as well as near the loading dock to monitor incoming and outgoing shipments.

● High-Value Areas:

Safe or vault: 

If you have a safe or vault holding valuable assets and sensitive information, how do you ensure these treasures remain protected from prying eyes?

Position a camera directly facing the safe. This way, you can capture anyone who approaches it, ensuring that you have a clear visual record of all activity. Trust me, the last thing you want is someone slipping in and out unnoticed!

● Cash Registers: 

Cash registers are a hot spot for theft and fraud. It’s crucial to keep them monitored. 

Place cameras directly above or at a slight angle to your cash registers. This gives you a bird’s-eye view of transactions and customer interactions.

You’ll catch every hand movement, every suspicious glance, and any funny business. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your employees are following proper procedures!

If you’re selling electronics, jewelry, or anything else that can easily be snatched up, you need to keep a watchful eye on those items.

● Corners: 

CCTV cameras at corners often become blind spots. Try these simple tips:

Position cameras angled inward at corners to capture footage from both sides, minimizing blind spots for maximum coverage.

Comparison of 90-degree and 120-degree field of view from security cameras in a room.
Image courtesy of IPVM.

 

Strategically plan and mount multiple cameras to capture corner areas from various angles, ensuring comprehensive coverage.

Wide-angle cameras are ideal for monitoring large spaces with minimal blind spots, though edge distortion should be taken into account.

What is the best position for a security camera?

  • Recommended height for security cameras.
  • Optimal camera angle.
  • Cameras installed beneath lights.

 

Diagram illustrating optimal camera height and detection range in a monitoring area.

 

Position cameras at the right height and angle to capture clear images of people and objects. Higher placements offer a wider field of view but may need adjustment for finer details.

For optimal results, install cameras 8-10 feet above ground to ensure ideal coverage.

Optimal camera angle:

Set the camera to the widest angle for maximum coverage and fewer cameras. However, fine-tune the focus on key areas to avoid blind spots where problems might occur.

If the camera is mounted high, tilt it downward to track movement and capture clear facial details.

Cameras installed beneath lights: 

Security camera attached to a high pole overlooking an area.
Image courtesy of Vorpenergy.

 

A well-considered setting of the light above the camera can improve image clarity, ensuring effective monitoring even in low-light conditions.

To maximize effectiveness, the camera should be placed in an advantageous position that aligns with natural pathways, capturing foot traffic from various angles.

Avoid these common camera placement mistakes:

Overly Broad Coverage: 

Trying to monitor the entire perimeter can lead to ineffective surveillance. Focus on key areas like entry points and exits.

Obstructed Views: 

Ensure cameras have unobstructed views of entryways and monitored areas. Avoid placing cameras behind objects or in areas with poor lighting.

Where you should not place security camera?

1. Privacy laws and regulations.

In many jurisdictions, strict privacy laws can limit where you can install cameras. For example, placing cameras in restrooms or changing areas is typically prohibited.

2. Shared spaces.

In shared or multi-tenant buildings, such as offices or retail complexes, you may need permission from other tenants or the building management before installing cameras in common areas.

3. Employee areas.

Installing cameras in areas where employees have a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as break rooms or locker rooms, can be legally problematic.

4. Technical limitations.

In locations with limited power supply or internet connectivity, setting up cameras may be impractical. This includes remote sites or areas with poor infrastructure.

5. Obstruction issues.

Installing cameras in areas with frequent obstructions (like moving vehicles or equipment) may limit their effectiveness and could make installation unfeasible.

Real-life example of camera placement in parking lot: 

Mounting security cameras on a mast in a parking lot provides a wide view, making it easier to monitor multiple vehicles and spot potential threats.

Here we spotlight Sirix’s Autonomous Security Box deployment at a Quebec RV dealership by EVOC Sécurité Inc.

About the Autonomous Security Box:

This cutting-edge, AI-driven, LTE-connected security solution offers unparalleled perimeter protection against intrusions and crimes.

Key features include three security cameras with remote monitoring, high-speed LTE, an LED strobe light, a 120 dB speaker, 90 days of cloud event recording, intelligent fan control, and comprehensive surge protection.

By mounting cameras at an optimal height, you can minimize blind spots and ensure that all areas of the parking lot are adequately covered.

Outdoor security camera mounted on a pole in a snowy parking lot.

High-quality footage from well-placed cameras can be invaluable for investigating incidents and identifying perpetrators.   

When choosing a mounting height for your parking lot security cameras, consider factors such as the size of the parking lot, the types of vehicles that use it, and the specific security needs of your business.

Future of security camera placement: 

It’s best to seek professional help for camera placement. You can also use security camera placement tools, which allow you to adjust angles or reposition cameras based on real-time needs or events.

These tools are easy to use—simply set the areas and cameras based on your security needs. They provide a clear view of each camera’s field of view, angle, and height, and generate an optimized camera placement report for you.

Schematic of camera positions with specific model details for surveillance coverage.
Image courtesy of brinno.

 

Case study: parking lot. 

Now let’s talk about a parking lot where strategic camera placement led to successful monitoring outcomes.

The crime was captured in real-time thanks to cameras strategically placed at key points throughout the dealership.

This allowed the monitoring system to capture the entire area in real time and detect suspicious behavior.

There were cameras to ensure that no blind spots existed within the coverage area of the cameras; therefore, a person would be detected the moment they tried to steal the car.

The high resolution would easily allow details of the movement to be detected.

The moment suspicious activity was in view, the monitoring team was notified and could swiftly act to stop the criminals. 

Properly placing cameras at key locations is crucial for enhancing security and deterring criminal activity.

Conclusion:

The right security camera placement is crucial for effective continuous monitoring and crime prevention. 

By understanding your camera’s purpose, analyzing your property layout, and ensuring optimal lighting and coverage, you can eliminate blind spots and enhance overall security. 

Remember to stay informed about privacy laws to maintain trust while protecting your space. 

Take action! Contact us today for a free consultation for your security setup and make the necessary adjustments for a safer environment!

Don't compromise on safety.

Sirix provides robust live remote monitoring to ensure your business and belongings are secure. Reach out now!

 

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