Most small shops we work with on 4th Street, Bristol and Main need fewer cameras than they think, placed better than they expect.
Cover these spots first
Every entrance, inside and out. The register or counter, from above and slightly in front so you see faces and hands. The back door and the alley. The parking area if you have one. That is often four to six cameras for a small store or restaurant.
Faces, not ceilings
A camera mounted too high sees the tops of heads. At doors we mount at a height and angle that catches faces as people walk in. That is the footage police and insurance actually need.
How long video is kept
A recorder on site, called an NVR, keeps video on a hard drive. Depending on the number of cameras and the drive size, most systems keep two to four weeks. You can watch live and play back from your phone.
Audio and California law
California generally requires the consent of everyone in a confidential conversation before it is recorded, so most businesses leave audio recording off. Video in public areas of your business is normal; just keep cameras out of restrooms and changing areas.
Wired is more reliable
Wired cameras keep recording when the Wi-Fi drops. We run the cable through the ceiling and walls so you do not see it.
Related: