Lighting conditions for optimal video quality

If you’re the first time owner of a hidden camera, there are several things you should know about lighting conditions and camera positioning before you begin recording footage.

Hidden surveillance cameras feature a pinhole camera, which due to the physical size of the lens, require well lit rooms for optimal image quality.

The good news is that many hidden cameras feature night vision technology, which is best when lighting conditions are not monitored and controlled, such as when you are away and lights are turned off, or overnight. Overall, night vision works better than non-night vision options even under typical household lighting conditions.

And when it comes to the positioning of a night vision camera, think of it like a flashlight. You aim your flashlight beam directly towards what you want to see. You may still see what is just on the edges of the beam, though it is more difficult to see. So, if you’re recording in the dark, be sure to point the camera lens’ “beam” to the area you wish to view best.

So, while night vision offers the best video quality in all lighting environments, keep in mind that while hidden surveillance cameras by their nature may not pick up the finest details of a subject, they will pick up the most important ones like male vs. female, ethnicity, type of clothing, physical activity of the person being recorded, etc.

Let’s take a look at a few images pulled from video footage. The images below show color video taken in well-lit and low light conditions using both non-night vision and night vision cameras. Notice the dramatic improvement in quality on the images done in house, especially the “well lit” conditions.

Non Night Vision recording in average lighting, notice the halo on the package:

Recording in average lighting with Night Vision:

Night Vision recording in complete darkness:

Lighting conditions are just one factor to consider when selecting the best hidden camera for your business or personal surveillance needs. The overall quality of the camera itself will play a large role in video quality – no matter the lighting conditions. If you want to ensure you’re selecting a higher quality device, we highly recommend looking for products designed in the U.S.