Security cameras are a critical piece of the puzzle for protecting your Central Florida home or business. However, simply installing cameras isn’t enough—their placement plays a critical role in ensuring they effectively deter crime and capture useful footage. Poorly positioned cameras can leave blind spots, reduce image quality, or even fail to record critical events.
To help you maximize the effectiveness of your security system, APS Security and Fire has outlined the most common mistakes in security camera placement and how to avoid them.
Placing Cameras Too High or Too Low
A frequent mistake is installing cameras at the wrong height. Many assume that placing cameras high up will provide a broader view, but this often leads to poor image quality and difficulty identifying faces or license plates. On the other hand, placing cameras too low can make them vulnerable to tampering or vandalism.
Solution: Aim to mount cameras 8 to 10 feet high. This provides a clear view of faces and activities while keeping the cameras out of easy reach. For areas like driveways or entry points, angle the camera slightly downward to capture critical details.
Ignoring Key Entry Points
Another common mistake is failing to cover all entry points. Some homeowners or business owners focus solely on the front door, leaving side doors, windows, and back entrances unprotected. Burglars often target these less secure areas, so overlooking them can leave your property vulnerable.
Solution: Conduct a thorough property assessment and identify all potential entry points. Ensure that at least one camera covers each door, window, and other access areas. If applicable, include garages, basements, and second-floor windows.
Overlooking Lighting Conditions
Security cameras rely on proper lighting to capture clear footage. Placing a camera in a poorly lit area or pointing it directly at a light source can result in washed-out or overly dark images, rendering the footage useless.
Solution: Choose cameras with night vision or low-light capabilities for areas with limited lighting. Avoid pointing them directly at the sun or bright lights for outdoor cameras. Instead, position them to take advantage of natural or artificial light sources. If necessary, install additional outdoor lighting to improve visibility.
Neglecting Blind Spots
Blind spots are areas where your cameras cannot see, and they can allow intruders to go undetected. Common blind spots include corners of buildings, large landscaping features, or areas obscured by furniture or decor.
Solution: Test your camera angles after installation to identify any blind spots. Use multiple cameras to cover overlapping areas, ensuring comprehensive coverage. For larger properties, consider using wide-angle lenses or pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) cameras to minimize gaps in surveillance.
Failing to Secure the Cameras Themselves
While security cameras are designed to protect your property, they can also become targets for theft or vandalism. Cameras that are easily accessible or poorly secured can be disabled by intruders, leaving your property unprotected.
Solution: To protect your cameras, use tamper-resistant mounts and housings. Ensure they are installed in locations that are difficult to reach without a ladder or special tools. Additionally, consider using dummy cameras in prominent areas to deter potential intruders while keeping your real cameras discreetly positioned.
Ignoring Privacy Concerns
While security cameras are meant to protect your property, it’s important to respect the privacy of others. Placing cameras in areas where they capture footage of neighbors’ homes, public sidewalks, or other private spaces can lead to legal issues and strained relationships.
Solution: Focus your cameras on your property boundaries and avoid pointing them toward areas where privacy is expected. If you’re unsure about local laws or regulations, consult a professional security provider like APS Security and Fire to ensure compliance.
Maximize Your Security with Proper Camera Placement
Proper security camera placement is just as important as the quality of the cameras themselves. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure your system provides maximum protection for your home or business.
For expert guidance, consult APS Security and Fire. Since 1989, APS has been helping homes and businesses throughout Central Florida with high-quality security solutions and tailored surveillance systems.
Ready to enhance your security? Contact APS Security and Fire today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a safer, more secure property.
