How to Hide a Camera in Plain Sight
Hidden Security Cameras
When it comes to security cameras, you can choose whether you want them installed in visible locations or have them hidden within your building.
There are two different perspectives with this topic.
Keep them in plain sight to deter crimes from occurring. Thieves are less likely to target your home or business if they know cameras are recording.
You don’t want a thief to find them and disable them. Plus, you need to know what people are up to when they think no one else is watching.
Both methods have merit, and you may choose a combination of both for various reasons.
Surveillance Laws and Regulations
Before you install security cameras around your home or business, you should research any laws in your area that regulate surveillance. If you want to hide surveillance cameras within your home or private property, you are probably within your rights if you are recording video without audio. Recording conversations are subject to entirely different rules and generally require consent. Most states have restrictions to surveillance cameras in areas such as bathrooms, where there is a reasonable expectation of privacy.
If you want to hide surveillance cameras at a business or commercial property, you also need to check state laws. You are not allowed to hide cameras in areas where there is a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as restrooms, dressing rooms, hotel rooms, or locker rooms.
How to Hide a Security Camera
Hiding surveillance cameras inside your child’s stuffed animals is something that generally happens in movies, but is not always as effective in real life. If you are looking to disguise a camera in your home, you could try the following ideas.
- The foliage of a potted plant
- On a bookshelf
- In a box of tissues
- In an old appliance
- Up high in a corner or on the ceiling
- Smoke alarms
- Electrical outlets
- Shiny desk accessories
- Light switch plates
The size of your surveillance camera will make a difference as to where you can hide it. Nanny cams or smaller baby monitor-type cameras can be placed in more covert places if you are choosing to hide the cameras themselves.
If you are hiding a surveillance camera indoors, make sure the lens is not obstructed. Then, check that you have a close power source that allows for keeping the cords out of sight. Finally, ensure that the distance and field of vision on the camera is sufficient to get clear video footage. If you choose a wireless security camera, the location you select will need a stable internet signal. If you have a battery-powered camera, note approximately how long the battery will last and check it regularly to make sure it’s working.
- In a tree or shrub
- Under the eaves of your home
- In a birdhouse
- Up high on an exterior wall
- In an exterior lamp
If you setup a security camera outside, think about how you will protect it from the elements and how the camera will perform in various lighting conditions.
Bookshelf cameras, dome cameras, fisheye cameras, and bullet cameras are just a few options our team can offer for designing an effective surveillance system for your home or business. Call us today and let us provide you with a free consultation with one of our security experts.
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