Installing security cameras correctly is the difference between catching criminals and capturing useless footage. This expert guide covers everything you need to know about camera installation best practices to maximize protection and avoid costly mistakes.
Why Camera Placement Matters More Than Camera Quality
Even the most expensive security camera becomes worthless if poorly placed. Entry points with inadequate coverage, cameras positioned too high or low, and blind spots from obstructions are the top three reasons security systems fail during break-ins.
Professional installation ensures optimal angles, proper height, and complete coverage, but understanding these principles helps whether you're going DIY or hiring experts.
How High Should Security Cameras Be Mounted?
Mount security cameras 8 to 10 feet high. This height prevents tampering while capturing faces clearly. Lower mounting makes cameras easy to disable. Higher mounting only captures the tops of heads, making identification more difficult.
Where to Install Security Cameras: Priority Locations
Outdoor Camera Placement
- Front door – The most critical location for any property
- Back door – Often targeted because it's less visible from the street
- Driveway – Captures vehicle activity and approach paths
- Side windows and doors – Frequently overlooked entry points
- Garage entrances – Protect vehicles and stored valuables
Indoor Camera Placement
- Main entry hallway – Monitors everyone entering and leaving
- Stairways – Natural choke points with comprehensive views
- Living room – High-value items and main gathering space
- Kitchen – Often connects to multiple rooms and exits
- Corners of large rooms – Maximizes the field of view
Explore General Security's residential security solutions for professionally designed camera systems tailored to your home's layout.
Wired vs. Wireless Security Cameras: Which Should You Choose?
Wireless Security Cameras
Best for: Renters, DIY installation, flexible placement
Advantages:
- Easy installation – No drilling through walls
- Relocate anytime without rewiring
- Smart home integration via WiFi
- Battery or solar-powered options
Disadvantages:
- Require battery charging or replacement
- Vulnerable to WiFi signal interference
- May lag during peak network usage
- Limited by wireless range (typically 50 to 100 feet)
Wired Security Cameras
Best for: Permanent installations, multi-story buildings, commercial properties
Advantages:
- Continuous power (never needs charging)
- More stable connection with no signal drops
- Works during internet outages (with local storage)
- Superior for Power over Ethernet (PoE) systems
Disadvantages:
- Requires professional installation for clean cable runs
- More expensive upfront installation costs
- Difficult to relocate after installation
For complex wired installations, contact General Security for expert setup with hidden cable management.
7 Camera Installation Mistakes That Ruin Your Security
- Direct Sunlight and Glare
The problem: Bright light washes out footage, making faces unidentifiable.
The solution: Survey locations throughout the day. Position cameras perpendicular to sunrise/sunset paths. Use cameras with Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) technology for challenging lighting.
2. Pointing Cameras Through Glass
The problem: Infrared night vision reflects off glass, rendering footage unusable. Motion detection fails through windows.
The solution: Never position cameras to monitor through glass doors or windows. Install separate outdoor cameras for exterior monitoring. Consider video doorbells for front entrance coverage.
3. Ignoring WiFi Signal Strength
The problem: Wireless cameras in WiFi dead zones constantly disconnect, miss events, or fail to send alerts.
The solution: Test signal strength with your phone at proposed camera locations. Install WiFi extenders for weak areas. Consider wired cameras for locations beyond reliable wireless range.
4. Installing at Wrong Angles
The problem: Cameras angled too steeply capture the tops of heads instead of faces.
The solution: Angle cameras 15 to 30 degrees downward. Aim to capture shoulder-height and above for facial recognition. Test angles by walking through the camera's view.
5. Creating Blind Spots
The problem: Gaps between camera coverage areas let intruders approach undetected.
The solution: Create overlapping coverage between cameras. Map out each camera's field of view before installation. Wide-angle lenses (130 to 180 degrees) help minimize blind spots.
6. Forgetting About Obstructions
The problem: Tree branches, bushes, decorations, or seasonal foliage block camera views or trigger constant false alarms.
The solution: Clear a 3-foot radius around cameras. Account for plant growth. Avoid areas near branches that move in the wind. Keep decorations away from camera sight lines.
7. Mounting Too Low or Too High
The problem: Low cameras get stolen or disabled. High cameras only show the tops of heads.
The solution: Follow the 8-to-10-foot-mounting-height rule. Use tamper-resistant mounting brackets. For areas requiring higher installation, angle cameras more steeply to compensate.
Security Camera Resolution: What You Actually Need
Resolution Standards Explained
- 1080p (2MP) – Minimum acceptable quality for home security cameras
- 2K (4MP) – Better detail for medium-sized properties
- 4K (8MP) – Read license plates and capture fine facial details from 30+ feet
Higher resolution may require more storage space and bandwidth. Balance quality needs with your internet speed and storage capacity.
For professional guidance on resolution requirements, explore General Security's commercial video surveillance options designed for businesses.
Night Vision and Outdoor Lighting Strategy
Maximizing Night Vision Performance
Infrared range varies by camera, typically 30 to 100 feet. Position cameras within their specified range for clear nighttime footage.
Color night vision requires ambient lighting but captures more detail than traditional infrared. Combine outdoor security cameras with motion-activated lighting for optimal results.
Motion-Activated Lighting Benefits
- Illuminates intruders, improving camera footage quality
- Acts as a psychological deterrent
- Reduces false alarms from small animals or debris
- Saves energy compared to always-on lighting
Integrate lighting with your security system through smart home automation for automated responses.
Using Analytics to Reduce False Alarms
Ground zones, trip lines, and motion detection let you ignore areas with constant activity (sidewalks, roads) while monitoring critical zones (walkways, entry points).
Smart motion detection uses AI to differentiate between:
- People
- Vehicles
- Animals
- Packages
- General motion
This dramatically reduces alert fatigue and helps you respond only to genuine threats.
DIY Installation vs. Professional Installation
When DIY Makes Sense
- 1 to 3 wireless cameras in straightforward locations
- Rental properties requiring non-permanent installation
- Limited budget with technical confidence
- Single-story homes with strong WiFi throughout
When to Hire Professionals
- 4+ cameras requiring comprehensive coverage
- Wired camera systems with hidden cable runs
- Multi-story buildings with complex layouts
- Integration with existing security systems
- Commercial properties requiring code compliance
General Security's professional installation includes site surveys, customized placement plans, clean cable management, and system optimization for maximum protection.
Essential Camera Maintenance for Longevity
Recommended Monthly Tasks
- Clean camera lenses with a microfiber cloth
- Remove dust, pollen, spider webs, and water spots
- Check for new obstructions (growing plants, new decorations)
Recommended Quarterly Tasks
- Verify mounting brackets remain secure
- Test all cameras by reviewing footage quality
- Verify motion detection zones remain appropriate
- Replace batteries in wireless cameras (if not solar)
Recommended Annual Tasks
- Update camera firmware for security patches and new features
- Inspect weatherproofing on outdoor cameras
- Review entire system coverage and adjust as needed
Getting Started with Your Security Camera Installation
Proper camera installation protects your property, family, and assets. Whether you choose DIY or professional installation, following these best practices ensures your investment delivers maximum security value.
If you’re ready for expert installation, request a free security assessment. Our specialists design custom camera systems with optimal placement for complete property protection.