Ever wondered if your current home security camera setup is actually doing its job, or just looking busy? Strategic camera placement doesn’t just tick a box for safety—it actively deters burglars, protects your loved ones, and gives you peace of mind.
The goal of this guide is simple: show you exactly where to place security cameras for optimal protection, inside and out. From your front door to the often-overlooked blind spots, we’ll walk you through how to install cameras the smart way.
Most burglars don’t sneak in through a window—they walk right through the front door. In fact, around 34% of break-ins happen via the front door, making it your top priority when installing security cameras.
Start by mounting your camera at an elevated vantage point, roughly 2.1 metres high, angled slightly downwards. This gives you a clear view of faces without capturing too much public space, staying compliant with security camera placement laws—you don’t want to accidentally record your neighbour’s property.
Pairing your primary camera with video doorbells and motion detection boosts your overall security. You’ll be able to screen visitors in real-time and get alerts whenever someone approaches your entry point. Some smart doorbells even support two-way audio, which adds another layer of deterrence for would-be burglars.
To ensure cameras work well day or night, pick models with night vision capabilities and excellent image quality. The goal is full coverage of your doorstep and surrounding entry area, without blind spots. Proper lighting is also crucial, either through built-in IR or indirect light sources, to avoid glare.
In short, the front door isn’t just your welcome mat—it’s your home’s first line of defence.
Think your backyard’s private enough to ignore? Think again. Most burglars prefer hidden, less-trafficked areas, making side doors, back doors, and garden gates prime targets.
This is where outdoor security cameras with night vision shine. These cameras let you keep an eye on darker areas and automatically adjust for low light. If you’ve got a larger space, opt for wide-angle lenses or pan-and-tilt security camera systems to maximise coverage. A single camera with a wide field of view can often cover your entire room or in this case, yard.
Place cameras high enough to avoid tampering, but low enough to capture facial detail again, that magic 2 to 2.5-metre sweet spot. Always make sure you’re not breaching security camera placement laws by pointing cameras into neighbouring properties.
Integrating motion detection features is a smart move. These send alerts when someone enters predefined zones, so you’re never caught off guard. Some models even trigger bright lights when movement is detected, perfect for startling would-be burglars.
Whether it’s the side gate or the garden shed, installing security cameras in these zones protects valuable objects like tools, bikes, and sports equipment.
Your garage is more than just car storage, it’s a hotspot for theft. From power tools and bicycles to vehicles themselves, garages are loaded with valuable objects.
To cover your garage properly, you’ll need a two-pronged approach: one outdoor camera watching over your driveway, and one indoor camera monitoring inside. For external surveillance, mount your camera just above the garage door or under the eaves, angled slightly down. This positioning gives you optimal views without exposing it to weather extremes.
Choose outdoor security cameras that can withstand harsh conditions. Look for high IP ratings and models designed specifically for outdoor security. Night vision and motion alerts are also essential, especially for darker driveways.
Inside the garage, a camera should be placed in the back corner, angled to see the entire room. Make sure lighting is adequate, or choose models with strong low-light video quality. Wired cameras are popular in garages for their reliable power supply and optimal performance.
If you store valuables here, don’t rely on doors alone. Strategic camera placement ensures your garage isn’t an easy access point for break-ins and helps you eliminate blind spots.
Inside your home, certain areas deserve a bit more attention, like living rooms, hallways, and main entryways. These are transitional zones where family members pass through frequently, and burglars are likely to enter first.
For indoor security cameras, place them in corners for maximum visibility. Angled properly, you can cover the entire room without placing a camera directly in anyone’s face. Good camera placement here means fewer cameras overall and better surveillance.
Remember: never place cameras in private spaces like bedrooms or bathrooms. Aside from breaching trust, you’ll violate both ethics and potentially security camera placement laws.
To make the most of your home security system, use smart indoor cameras with mobile integration. That way, you can keep tabs on your home from your phone, no matter where you are. Look for features like motion detection, 2-way audio, and cloud storage.
Want to keep an eye on your pets or deliveries? These home security cameras offer a practical, non-invasive solution.
Think you’ve covered everything? Let’s talk about the spots many homeowners forget when putting cameras in place.
Blind spots include basement windows, roof access points, narrow alleyways, and fence lines. Even a small area left unmonitored could be just what a would be burglar needs to gain access.
Conduct a thorough walk-around of your home. Imagine you’re the intruder. Where would you sneak in? This method often reveals vulnerabilities you hadn’t considered. Or better yet, consult professional installers who know how to eliminate blind spots using strategic camera placement.
You should aim for redundancy. If one camera fails or gets damaged, another should still catch the action. That’s why overlapping views at entry points are a great idea.
When you install cameras, always test visibility during different times of the day shadows and glare can seriously affect video quality. Positioning matters just as much as the tech itself.
Because at the end of the day, comprehensive coverage is the difference between catching a burglar and missing them entirely.
Understanding the difference between indoor and outdoor cameras is key to designing a home security system that works.
Outdoor cameras need to brave the elements. That means better waterproofing, higher image quality, and tough materials. Many also come with night vision and motion detection, making them essential for external monitoring.
Indoor cameras, on the other hand, prioritise design and discretion. They’re compact, easy to install, and integrate smoothly with other home security systems. But you’ll want to check for high-resolution streaming, solid audio capability, and smart features like mobile alerts.
Wired cameras are usually more reliable, especially outdoors. Wireless ones offer flexibility for internal areas.
When deciding how many security cameras to install, think about layout and budget. A small flat might only need three cameras. A larger home? Maybe eight or more. The right mix gives you full coverage without overkill.
Before you get too excited about placing CCTV cameras everywhere, brush up on security camera placement laws, especially in Australia.
You’re not allowed to record public footpaths, neighbours’ property, or anything beyond your boundary. Keep cameras pointed at your own land and private spaces only.
Indoors, always respect the privacy of family members and guests. Avoid areas like bathrooms or changing rooms entirely. Transparency matters—clearly tell everyone where indoor cameras are located.
For extra peace of mind (and legal protection), install visible signage near cameras. Not only does this keep you compliant, but visible cameras also act as a strong deterrent for intruders.
Today’s security systems are smarter than ever. Most modern security camera systems offer remote access via mobile apps, so you can monitor your home on the go.
AI-based motion detection, face recognition, and even pet filters help minimise false alerts. You’ll know when it’s an actual intruder, not your cat.
Cloud storage and customised alert settings make it easier to manage footage without hassle. When you install cameras, pick smart ones that let you adapt camera placement based on evolving needs.
DIY installation is great until it’s not. If your home has a complex layout, multiple blind spots, or tricky wiring needs, call in the pros.
Professional installation ensures proper angles, cable management, and power supply. They’ll also help position cameras for optimal protection.
Why guess when you can get it right the first time?
Security isn’t about paranoia, it’s about peace of mind. And that starts with the proper placement of your home security cameras.
From indoor cameras watching over loved ones to outdoor cameras protecting tools and vehicles, where you place cameras is just as important as the cameras themselves.
Skip the guesswork. Know your security goals, identify potential entry points, and position each CCTV camera to cover valuable objects and eliminate blind spots. Whether it’s a wired camera in your garage or a motion-sensing video doorbell at the front door, it should all work together as one smart, seamless home security system.
Don’t settle for “close enough.” Ensure cameras are installed for optimal performance and comprehensive coverage.
For a safer, smarter home, contact WP Electrical today. We offer expert CCTV & Security services tailored to your needs—no fuss, just peace of mind.
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