A camera specification is only useful if it solves the problem at your property. We start by walking through the areas that matter, then plan camera positions, cable routes, recording and network access as one system.
1. Decide what each camera needs to show
Do you want an overview of a driveway, a clear view of the front door, coverage of a side passage, or a record of who enters a workshop? One camera rarely does every job equally well. Distance, height, lighting and obstructions all change the useful view. We discuss these before choosing a model.
2. Plan the cable route with the camera position
A camera in the right place still needs a sensible path to the recorder or network. We look at mounting surfaces, access and how to route and protect cables neatly. Established Aerial Wizard customers have repeatedly mentioned tidy work and carefully routed cables in independent Checkatrade reviews.
3. Think about darkness, not just daylight
What is the lighting like at the exact point you want to cover? A suitable Hikvision ColorVu model can capture colour in low light, but the result depends on the model, available light and placement. Some very dark scenes need supplemental light. We would choose a camera after seeing the site, not promise that one feature will work everywhere. Hikvision explains how ColorVu works.
4. Decide how recording and viewing should work
How long do you need footage to be retained? Who should be able to view it? Do you want to check a live camera on your phone or find a recording after an event? Recorder capacity, camera count, resolution and recording settings all affect storage. Remote viewing also relies on the selected system and a suitable network connection. We plan the network, configure supported access and show you how to use the system. Hikvision's Hik-Connect support describes available app functions.
5. Keep the view proportionate
A camera should be aimed at the area you need. If home CCTV captures beyond your boundary, the Information Commissioner's Office says data protection rules apply, including requirements around signage, secure storage and responding to requests for footage. We can discuss camera positions and privacy masking; the system owner remains responsible for how it is used. Read the ICO's home CCTV guidance.
Bring these answers to the first conversation
- Your town or postcode and whether the property is a home or business
- The entrances or spaces you most want to cover
- Any existing cameras, recorder, network or difficult cable routes
- Whether phone viewing, alerts or video door entry matter to you
We install new Hikvision CCTV systems and can assess existing Hikvision or Dahua systems. For a practical starting point, tell us about your property.