When it comes to home security, a camera system is one of the most effective ways to keep your property safe. But just buying a high-quality camera isn’t enough; proper placement is crucial for capturing clear, actionable footage. Knowing where to install your cameras can make the difference between a well-protected home and a vulnerable one. This article will not only guide you on the best places to install cameras but also help you choose the best camera types for optimal security. If you’re looking for a reliable camera system in New York, here’s everything you need to know.

1. Exterior: Front Door

The front door is the most common entry point for burglars, with statistics from the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors showing that 34% of burglars use this entry. It’s also where package thieves are likely to strike. Installing a camera at the front door ensures that you can monitor everyone who comes and goes, including delivery drivers, guests, and maintenance workers.

Camera Type: For front door surveillance, a video doorbell camera is a popular choice. These cameras not only record footage but also allow you to communicate with visitors remotely through your smartphone or smart home device. Models like Ring or Nest Hello are excellent options for a camera system in New York since they are reliable, easy to install, and provide real-time alerts.

Pro Tip: Consider using a video doorbell along with a traditional outdoor camera aimed at your yard or garage for comprehensive coverage.

2. Exterior: Back and Side Doors

While the front door gets most of the attention, the back and side doors are often targeted by burglars. A survey by the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors (NACHI) shows that 22% of break-ins happen through the back door. These doors are typically out of sight from the street, which makes them ideal for intruders to enter undetected.

Camera Type: For side and back doors, a bullet camera or a dome camera is recommended. Bullet cameras have a long, cylindrical shape and are often mounted on walls or ceilings, making them a great option for capturing wide-angle views. On the other hand, dome cameras are more discreet and can cover larger areas without being overly noticeable. Both types of cameras are weather-resistant, making them ideal for outdoor use.

3. Exterior: Garage and Driveway

Garages are common targets for burglars due to their easy access and storage of valuable items like cars, bikes, and tools. Whether your garage is attached or detached, installing a camera to monitor this area adds an extra layer of security. If your driveway is long or leads to a gate, placing a camera there can help you keep an eye on anyone trying to access your property.

Camera Type: For monitoring garages and driveways, consider installing a PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) camera or a motion-sensor camera. PTZ cameras are perfect for large spaces like garages or driveways because they can rotate and zoom to track movement. Motion-sensor cameras, on the other hand, only activate when movement is detected, saving storage and bandwidth while ensuring that you capture only relevant activity.

Pro Tip: Install a camera with night vision capabilities, especially if your garage or driveway lacks adequate lighting.

4. Exterior: Wide Yard Views

The backyard is another key area to cover. Not only does it help you monitor any trespassers or individuals scouting out your home, but it also gives you visibility into the activities of children, pets, or even wildlife.

Camera Type: A floodlight camera is an excellent choice for backyard surveillance. These cameras come equipped with motion sensors and bright LED lights that automatically activate when movement is detected, providing clear footage even in low-light conditions. Some models even allow two-way audio so you can communicate with anyone in your yard.

Pro Tip: Choose cameras with wide fields of view (at least 130 degrees) to ensure you capture a large area, including any gates, fences, or entry points into the yard.

5. Interior: Common Areas

Common areas such as the living room or kitchen are often where the family gathers, but they can also be vulnerable to break-ins. These rooms have large ground-floor windows that could become potential entry points. A security camera in these areas can help you monitor household activities, from keeping an eye on kids or pets to ensuring that hired help, like cleaners or repairmen, is doing their job.

Camera Type: A Wi-Fi security camera is perfect for indoor areas. These cameras are typically small, wireless, and easy to install, offering flexibility to place them anywhere. Many Wi-Fi cameras come with features like cloud storage, remote access, and motion detection, making them an excellent choice for monitoring indoor spaces.

Pro Tip: Position the camera at an angle that captures the key entry points, such as windows and doors.

6. Interior: Main Stairway or Hallway

A camera positioned in a central hallway or stairway ensures that no one can move around your home undetected. Even if an intruder enters through a hidden area like a bathroom or bedroom, they’ll likely be captured on camera as they move through the house.

Camera Type: Consider a panoramic camera for hallways and stairways. These cameras offer 180 or 360-degree views, making them ideal for monitoring multiple points of entry and tracking movement through large areas. They provide a comprehensive view of the entire space, making it difficult for anyone to sneak past without being captured.

Additional Tips for Camera Placement

Once you’ve chosen the best locations for your cameras, it’s important to follow these placement tips for optimal performance:

• Height: Install cameras 8 to 10 feet off the ground. This height is low enough to capture clear footage but high enough to avoid easy tampering or obstruction.
• Avoid Direct Sunlight: Direct sunlight can cause glare and wash out your footage. Angle cameras to avoid facing them directly into the sun, and be mindful of how the light changes throughout the day.
• Protect from the Elements: Make sure your outdoor cameras are weather-resistant and placed in areas that provide some protection from the elements, such as under eaves or awnings.
• Be Mindful of Obstructions: Ensure there are no branches, bushes, or other obstructions that could grow over time and block the camera’s view.
• Visible Cameras: While it may be tempting to hide your cameras for a stealthy approach, visible cameras can act as a deterrent to potential burglars. Make sure your cameras are visible, so they serve as a proactive security measure.

Where NOT to Place a Security Camera

While it’s important to know where to place your cameras, it’s equally essential to be aware of where NOT to install them:

• Neighbors’ Property: Never position cameras so that they infringe on your neighbor’s privacy. It’s fine for your camera to capture their public-facing property, but you should avoid directly monitoring private spaces.
• Private Spaces (Bedrooms and Bathrooms): Areas like bedrooms and bathrooms require privacy. Avoid placing cameras in these spaces to respect personal boundaries and privacy expectations.

Choosing the right spots for your home security cameras is just as important as choosing the right cameras. By strategically placing cameras at your front and back doors, garage, yard, common areas, and main hallways, you’ll ensure that your home is well-covered and safe from potential intruders. Additionally, selecting the best camera types for each area, such as video doorbells, bullet cameras, and PTZ cameras, will maximize your coverage and help you stay one step ahead. If you’re looking for a camera system in New York, make sure to consult with security experts to select the best cameras tailored to your specific needs.

With thoughtful placement and the right equipment, your home can be protected from all angles, providing you with peace of mind and the confidence that your property is secure at all times.