Security
CCTV placement basics for useful evidence
Camera height, lighting, field of view, and retention choices that make a surveillance system more useful.
A camera is useful when it captures the detail needed for a real task—not simply when it covers a large area. Placement should begin with the question the footage must answer.
Match the view to the purpose
Overview cameras help track movement across a property. Identification views need tighter framing at doors, gates, payment points, or other controlled paths. One wide camera does not always do both jobs well.
Work with the light
Backlighting, headlights, deep shade, reflective walls, and nighttime illumination change the image dramatically. Evaluate the view across the operating conditions that actually matter.
Use practical mounting heights
Higher is not automatically better. Very high mounting can reduce facial detail and make maintenance difficult. Cameras should be secure, reachable under controlled access, and aligned with the intended evidence.
Protect power and data
Outdoor cable needs a safe route, suitable containment, weather protection, and thoughtful surge and power planning. Network segmentation and secure credentials matter just as much as the physical camera.
Plan retention and access
Storage duration depends on camera count, resolution, frame rate, activity, and recording mode. Define who may view live video, export recordings, change settings, and access the system remotely.
A good survey connects risk, field of view, lighting, network design, storage, and operational responsibility into one system.