How High Arlo Camera Placement Boosts Home Security

Mounting your Arlo camera at the optimal height dramatically improves home security by maximizing field of view and deterring tampering. Positioning cameras 7 to 10 feet high ensures clear facial recognition while staying out of easy reach, reducing the risk of vandalism or theft. Proper height placement also minimizes obstructions and blind spots, delivering more reliable motion detection and surveillance coverage.

Key Takeaways

• Mount cameras 7–10 feet high to deter tampering and capture clear facial details.
• Angle downward 30 degrees for optimal motion detection and coverage.
• Prioritize entry points like doors and windows for maximum threat visibility.
• Avoid pointing at busy streets to reduce false alerts from passing activity.
• Use weatherproof mounts to ensure stability and durability at height.
• Check Wi-Fi signal strength before installation to prevent connectivity drops.

Why Camera Height Matters for Home Security

Imagine you’re away on vacation, sipping a cocktail under a palm tree, when your phone buzzes with a motion alert from your Arlo camera. You open the app and see a shadowy figure near your front porch. But wait—the image is blurry, the face is obscured, and the person is just a dark silhouette against the porch light. Sound familiar? It’s a scenario many homeowners face when their camera placement isn’t optimized. The truth is, how high Arlo camera placement is just as important as where you place it. A poorly positioned camera can miss critical details, create blind spots, or even become an easy target for tampering.

When I first installed my Arlo cameras, I made the rookie mistake of mounting them too low—eye level, thinking it would capture faces clearly. What I didn’t realize was that a determined intruder could simply duck or cover their face, and the camera’s wide-angle lens distorted facial features. After a false alarm and a neighbor’s prank (a raccoon with a knack for mischief), I decided to dig deeper into camera height and placement. What I discovered transformed my entire security setup. In this guide, I’ll share everything I’ve learned about optimizing Arlo camera placement to maximize visibility, deterrence, and peace of mind.

The Science Behind Optimal Camera Height

You might think, “Why does height matter if the camera sees everything?” But camera placement isn’t just about field of view—it’s about how the camera sees the scene. Arlo cameras, with their wide-angle lenses and motion detection, perform best when installed at a height that balances coverage, clarity, and deterrence.

Field of View vs. Clarity

Arlo cameras typically offer a 110° to 160° field of view, depending on the model. While this wide angle captures more area, it also distorts images at the edges. If you mount the camera too low (below 7 feet), the lens captures more ground and less of the upper body or face. At 8 to 10 feet high, the camera’s field of view captures a person’s full height without significant distortion. For example, a 9-foot placement allows the camera to see a 6-foot-tall person from head to toe while still monitoring the ground for package theft or pets.

Reducing Blind Spots

Low-mounted cameras create blind spots directly beneath them. A thief can crouch or crawl under the camera’s view, especially if the camera is angled straight down. By placing the camera higher and angling it slightly downward (15° to 20°), you eliminate these blind spots. Think of it like a security guard standing on a platform—they can see farther and spot sneaky movements.

Real-World Example

A friend installed her Arlo Ultra at 5 feet high, thinking it would “catch faces.” But when a package thief stole her Amazon delivery, the footage showed only the top of the thief’s head and hands. After repositioning the camera to 9 feet and angling it downward, the next incident captured the thief’s full face, clothing, and even the license plate of their getaway car (parked across the street).

How High Arlo Camera Placement Deters Crime

Cameras don’t just record crime—they can prevent it. Studies show that visible security cameras reduce property crime by up to 50% (National Institute of Justice). But visibility isn’t just about being seen; it’s about being unavoidable. Here’s how height plays a role.

The Deterrence Factor

Criminals are lazy. They target easy opportunities. A camera mounted at 8–10 feet is hard to ignore. It’s high enough to be visible but low enough to seem “reachable” (though it isn’t). This creates psychological pressure—potential intruders feel watched and are more likely to move on. In contrast, a camera mounted at 12 feet or higher might be overlooked, especially if it’s tucked under an eave.

Tampering Resistance

Low-mounted cameras are vulnerable to tampering. A thief can spray-paint the lens, kick the mount, or even remove the camera with a ladder or pole. At 8 to 10 feet, the camera is out of easy reach. Even with a 6-foot ladder, most people can’t safely access it without a stable platform. For extra protection, use Arlo’s weather-resistant mounts and secure the base with tamper-proof screws.

Case Study: The “Invisible” Camera Myth

A neighbor installed an Arlo camera at 14 feet, hidden under the eaves. It looked “invisible” from the ground. But after a break-in, the police found that the thief had simply used binoculars to spot the camera and avoided its field of view. The lesson? A camera isn’t a deterrent if it’s not obviously present. Now, they’ve moved it to 9 feet with a bright LED spotlight—theft attempts dropped to zero.

Best Practices for Arlo Camera Placement by Location

Not all entry points are the same. Your front door, backyard, and garage have unique risks and optimal camera heights. Let’s break it down.

Front Door: The First Line of Defense

The front door is the most common entry point for burglars. For Arlo cameras here:

• Height: 8–10 feet. This captures faces, packages, and anyone approaching the door.
• Angle: 15° downward tilt. Avoid pointing directly at the doorbell (it can trigger false alerts from sunlight).
• Tip: Pair with a doorbell camera (like Arlo Video Doorbell) for close-up facial shots. The doorbell handles faces; the high camera handles the broader scene.

Example: After repositioning my front door Arlo to 9 feet, I caught a package thief mid-theft. The footage showed their face, the stolen package, and the license plate of their car parked on the street.

Backyard and Patio: Covering Hidden Entry Points

Backyards are often overlooked but are prime targets for intruders (especially if your front door has a camera). For backyard placement:

• Height: 9–10 feet. Higher than front doors because of trees, fences, and outdoor furniture.
• Angle: 20° downward tilt. Aim to cover the patio, sliding doors, and gate.
• Tip: Use motion zones to ignore pets or swaying branches. Arlo’s AI can distinguish humans from animals.

Pro Tip: Mount the camera on a wall or eave, not a tree. Trees move in wind, causing false alerts.

Garage and Side Entrances: The Sneaky Zones

Garage doors and side gates are low-traffic areas where intruders sneak in. For these spots:

• Height: 8–9 feet. Lower because these areas are often shaded or have obstructions.
• Angle: 10° downward tilt. Focus on the garage door handle and side gate latch.
• Tip: Add an Arlo Floodlight Camera here. The bright light deters prowlers and improves night vision.

Data Table: Recommended Arlo Camera Heights by Location

Location	Ideal Height (Feet)	Angle (Degrees)	Key Features to Monitor
Front Door	8–10	15° downward	Faces, packages, approaching individuals
Backyard	9–10	20° downward	Patio, sliding doors, gate, pets
Garage	8–9	10° downward	Door handle, side gate, tools
Driveway	9–10	15° downward	License plates, vehicles, pedestrians
Windows (Ground Floor)	8–9	5° downward	Window latches, climbing attempts

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Arlo Camera Height

Even with the best intentions, small errors can ruin your camera’s effectiveness. Here are pitfalls I’ve learned the hard way.

Too Low: The “Ground View” Trap

Mounting a camera below 7 feet might seem like a good idea for facial recognition, but it backfires. Why?

• Distortion: The wide-angle lens stretches faces at close range.
• Blind Spots: A crouched person or crawling animal is invisible.
• Tampering: Easy to reach and disable.

Fix: If you must install low (e.g., for a child’s room), use a tilt mount to angle it upward slightly.

Too High: The “Eave Blindness” Problem

Cameras mounted above 12 feet often fail because:

• Reduced Detail: Faces and license plates become pixelated.
• False Alerts: Birds, leaves, and shadows trigger motion sensors.
• Poor Deterrence: Hard to see from the ground.

Fix: Use a zoom feature (available on Arlo Pro 4/Ultra) to focus on key areas. Or install a second camera at 8–10 feet for close-ups.

Incorrect Angle: The “Sky or Ground” Error

Pointing the camera straight up (at the sky) or straight down (at the ground) wastes its capabilities. A downward tilt of 15°–20° is ideal—it covers the scene without overexposing the sky or missing ground activity.

Ignoring Lighting

Height affects lighting too. A camera under an eave might be in shade, while one on a sunny wall gets glare. Test your camera at different times of day. If shadows obscure faces, add an Arlo Solar Panel or Floodlight to improve visibility.

Advanced Tips: Customizing Arlo Height for Unique Homes

Every home is different. Sloped roofs, tall fences, or multi-story buildings require tailored solutions. Here’s how to adapt.

Multi-Story Homes: Covering Upper Floors

If you have a second story, you might think, “Do I need cameras up there?” Yes—but not at ground-level heights. For upper floors:

• Height: 10–12 feet (mounted on the second-story wall or eave).
• Angle: 10° downward tilt. Focus on balconies, windows, and stairwells.
• Tip: Use Arlo’s wire-free design to avoid drilling through walls. The magnetic mount lets you adjust height easily.

Sloped Roofs and Eaves

Sloped eaves can block a camera’s view. For these:

• Solution 1: Use an extension pole (available from Arlo) to lower the camera below the eave.
• Solution 2: Mount the camera on a gable wall instead of the eave.
• Pro Tip: Measure the eave’s overhang. If it’s more than 2 feet, the camera needs to be at least 10 feet high to clear it.

Homes with Tall Fences or Hedges

Fences and hedges can block a camera’s line of sight. To overcome this:

• Height: Mount the camera above the fence line (e.g., on a post or wall).
• Angle: Aim the camera to look over the fence, not through it.
• Tip: Trim hedges regularly. Overgrown plants create shadows and block the lens.

Testing and Adjusting

After installing, test your camera:

• Walk through the monitored area at night and during the day.
• Check the app for blind spots, glare, or false alerts.
• Use Arlo’s motion detection settings to fine-tune sensitivity.

My Routine: I review footage weekly and adjust the camera height or angle if needed. Last month, I noticed a blind spot near my trash cans—so I moved the camera 6 inches higher. Problem solved!

Conclusion: Height Is Just the Beginning

When it comes to how high Arlo camera placement should be, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But by following the 8–10 foot rule, angling downward, and tailoring the setup to your home’s unique features, you can transform your security system from a passive recorder to an active deterrent. Remember, a camera isn’t just a tool—it’s a guardian. And like any guardian, it needs the right vantage point to do its job.

Don’t let a simple mistake like low mounting undermine your safety. Take the time to test, adjust, and refine. I’ve seen how small changes—like raising a camera by a foot or tweaking the angle—can make a huge difference. Whether you’re protecting your family, your packages, or your peace of mind, the right height is your first line of defense. So grab a ladder, check your app, and give your Arlo the view it deserves. Your home will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ideal height for Arlo camera placement?

The optimal height for Arlo camera placement is 7 to 10 feet above the ground. This height ensures clear facial recognition while deterring tampering and avoiding obstructions like bushes or mailboxes.

How high should Arlo cameras be placed to avoid blind spots?

Mount Arlo cameras at least 8 feet high, angled slightly downward (15–30 degrees) to cover entryways and walkways. This minimizes blind spots while maintaining a wide field of view.

Can Arlo cameras be placed too high for effective security?

Yes, placing Arlo cameras above 12 feet can reduce image clarity and facial detail. For best results, stick to 7–10 feet and adjust angles to capture key areas like doors or driveways.

Does Arlo camera placement height affect motion detection?

Absolutely. Placing Arlo cameras too high (over 10 feet) may trigger false alerts from distant movement or miss close-range activity. A 7–10 foot height balances coverage and accuracy.

How high should Arlo cameras be for outdoor perimeter security?

For perimeter coverage, mount Arlo cameras 9–10 feet high, angled to cover fence lines or property borders. This height prevents easy tampering while capturing intruders before they approach the house.

What’s the best way to test Arlo camera placement height?

Use the Arlo app’s live view to test camera height and angle before final installation. Adjust until key areas (doors, windows, pathways) are clearly visible without distortion or obstructions.