What used to be tech that was exclusive to high-end security and surveillance systems in large businesses and office buildings is now available for home use. Thanks to advances in technology, security cameras are getting smaller and more affordable every year. Adding a security camera to your home security system is a great way to keep an eye on your home when no one is there, or see who is at your door before you answer it.
When adding security cameras to your home security system, you’ll need to consider the type of camera and the location.
Home Security Cameras
Bullet Cameras
These inconspicuous tube-like cameras are easy to install, offer a wide viewing angle, and leave a small footprint. Designed for indoor or outdoor use, bullet cameras are great perimeter cameras for your home and surrounding yard. Get the most bang for your buck with day/night cameras that can capture images in all lighting conditions.
Dome Cameras
Dome cameras are commonly found in stores and offices, but can be great in spacious homes or attached to garages or car ports. The dome operates on a swivel, allowing the camera to pan and tilt to capture images at multiple angles. Some dome cameras will scan the environment on their own, while others can be manually operated through wired or wireless controls.
Hidden Cameras
Not only are hidden cameras nice outside—placed in fake rocks or gutters—but they’re also perfect for inside your home. You can put hidden cameras in almost any object; books, jewelry, sunglasses, refrigerators, anything. Don’t worry about buying the small camera and figuring out how to insert it into a prop, many of the cameras available online will come built inside their prop.
Fake Cameras
Some might call it overkill, even paranoia, but fake cameras are important. They protect your home and your (more expensive) real cameras. These cameras come in all shapes and sizes and look the same as real cameras, some of them even swivel. Fake cameras can serve as a symbol of protection—a few well-placed fake cameras can make your home appear as if it is heavily monitored—and as a distraction from your real hidden cameras.
Location
Once you’ve got your home security camera system ready, you’ll want to survey your home for the best locations. A good location for your cameras, as well as most home security equipment, will be inconspicuous (an obvious camera is easily blocked, broken, or vandalized) and provide you with a full view of the area you want to watch. Consider viewing angles, weather protection, and range when installing outdoors. For indoor and hidden cameras, try to hide wires (or use a wireless security camera), and place cameras as high as possible, preferably out-of-reach for an average size adult.
