Where to put cameras, and why

More cameras do not automatically mean better coverage. Where they go matters more than how many you buy. Good placement starts with questions, not hardware.

Start with purpose

Before choosing locations, decide what you want video to do. Deterrence, identifying people, documenting incidents, monitoring operations, and supporting investigations may call for different positions and different image quality.

The places that usually matter most

• Entrances and exits. Capture faces at eye level as people come and go. This is often the most valuable footage.
• Reception and customer areas. Show interactions and who enters the building.
• Cash handling and high-value storage. Cover registers, safes, supply rooms, and anything attractive to theft.
• Parking and approaches. Show vehicles and walkways, with attention to lighting at night.
• Loading docks and delivery doors. Often under-covered and easy to exploit.
• Server rooms and records. Document who goes in and out.
• Hallways and stairwells. Connect the story between spaces so you can follow an event.

Placement principles

• Think in views. Mount at a height that gives a clear view while keeping the camera out of easy reach.
• Avoid backlight. A camera pointed at a bright window or door will show a silhouette. Reposition or choose one that handles glare.
• Match the camera to the job. A wide view helps you see a scene; a tighter view helps you identify a face. You often need both.
• Plan for night. Check low-light performance and add lighting where needed.
• Protect privacy. Avoid restrooms, locker areas, and spaces where people reasonably expect privacy, and post notices where required.

Test before you finish

After installation, review real footage during the day and at night. Walk the area and ask: could we identify someone from this? Adjust angles before the system goes live.

A professional site walk can map your risks and recommend a layout that covers what matters without overspending.

Want a second set of eyes on your site? Schedule a physical security walkthrough.