How to Choose Surveillance Camera Lens Angle？

Choosing the right surveillance camera lens angle is crucial for maximizing coverage, clarity, and security effectiveness. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you select the best angle for your surveillance needs:

1. Determine the Purpose of Surveillance

General Monitoring: Wide-angle lenses (e.g., 2.8mm–4mm) for broad coverage.
Facial Recognition/Detail Capture: Narrower lenses (e.g., 6mm–12mm) for zoomed-in, focused shots.
License Plate or Object Identification: Telephoto lenses (e.g., 12mm–50mm+) for long-distance clarity.

2. Understand Lens Angles (Field of View, FOV)

Wide-Angle (90°–180° FOV): Covers large areas but may distort edges (best for hallways, parking lots).
Standard Angle (30°–60° FOV): Balanced view, good for entrances and retail stores.
Narrow Angle (<30° FOV): Focused view for long-distance identification (e.g., gates, driveways).

3. Consider Camera Placement

Height: Mount cameras 8–10 feet high for optimal face capture while avoiding tampering.
Angle Tilt: Slight downward tilt (15°–30°) reduces glare and improves facial recognition.
Avoid Backlighting: Position cameras away from direct sunlight or bright lights to prevent silhouetting.

4. Test Before Final Installation

Use a temporary mount to check blind spots and adjust before permanent setup.
Ensure critical areas (doors, cash registers, aisles) are fully covered.

5. Use Multiple Cameras for Full Coverage

Combine wide-angle (overview) + narrow-angle (detail) cameras for complete security.
Overlap camera views to eliminate blind spots.

6. Adjust Based on Lighting Conditions

Low-light areas may need IR-capable cameras with proper angle adjustments.
Avoid pointing cameras directly at reflective surfaces (windows, glass).

7. Follow Legal & Privacy Guidelines

Avoid pointing cameras at private property (neighbors’ windows, bathrooms).
Comply with local surveillance laws (e.g., GDPR, two-party consent states).

Best Lens Angles for Common Scenarios:

Scenario	Recommended Lens Angle	Lens (mm)
Parking Lot	90°–120° (Wide)	2.8mm–4mm
Store Entrance	60°–90° (Moderate)	3.6mm–6mm
ATM/Cash Register	30°–60° (Narrow)	6mm–12mm
Long Driveway	<30° (Telephoto)	12mm+

Final Tips:

✔ Use varifocal lenses (adjustable mm) for flexibility.
✔ PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) cameras allow remote angle adjustments.
✔ Test at night to ensure IR illumination covers the desired area.