Adjusting Your Car Camera: A Simple Guide For Drivers

Adjusting your car camera is important to enhance efficiency and performance. There are several reasons why you might need to adjust the angle of your car camera. This could be because the angle is not to your preference, or the camera was not installed properly. It is recommended to get a second person to help with the adjustments, with one person moving the camera while the other watches the monitor. The process of adjusting the camera will depend on the type of camera and how it is mounted. Some cameras are easy to adjust within their casing, while others may require tools such as a screwdriver or drill to remove, adjust, and refasten.

How to Adjust Car Camera

Adjusting the camera lens

The next step is to gather the required equipment, which includes a calibration tool, a tripod, and a camera body and lens. Some common calibration tools include the DSLRKIT Lens Focus Calibration Tool, J Christina Photography Tool Focus Pyramid Autofocus Lens Calibration Tool, and Datacolor SpyderLenCal Autofocus Calibration Aid. It is also possible to use a regular ruler or make a focus tool using a ruler.

Once the equipment is gathered, the camera needs to be set up on the tripod and levelled. The calibration tool should also be placed on a level surface a few feet from the lens. The lens should then be set to the widest aperture to get the shallowest depth of field. The camera should focus on the centre of the calibration tool or the ruler using the viewfinder, not Live View, and a photo should be taken.

The photo should then be inspected to determine if the focus is accurate. This can be done by reviewing the image on a computer or by tethering the camera to the computer and reviewing the images directly on the screen. If the focus is not accurate, the camera's autofocus micro-adjustment parameters should be adjusted until the sharpest image is achieved.

The specific steps to adjust the autofocus micro-adjustment parameters will vary depending on the camera brand. For Nikon cameras, the AF Fine-Tune menu can be found in the camera settings. For Canon cameras, the autofocus micro-adjustment can be accessed through the Function area and Auto Focus settings. Other camera brands may have different menu items and names, but the process should be similar.

It is important to note that lens calibration is camera and lens-specific, so the process will need to be repeated for each lens and camera body. Additionally, lens calibration may need to be performed periodically, especially if the lenses are used heavily or roughly.

Using the right tools

If your camera enclosure has screws and bolts, you'll need a drill or a hand screwdriver with the correct bits to open it. Many camera mounts use hex screws or regular screws, so a drill or screwdriver is often necessary.

• Flathead screwdriver
• Phillips screwdriver
• 3/32 to 1/8 drill bit
• Washers, nuts, or grommets (preferably rubber to prevent damage)

Additionally, having the manufacturer's manual is crucial. It will provide specific instructions and precautions for your particular camera model, ensuring you're doing the right thing and reducing the risk of damage.

If you're not confident in your ability to adjust the camera, consider inviting a competent friend or hiring a professional to assist you.

Common reasons to adjust your camera

There are several reasons why you may need to adjust your car's backup camera. Here are some of the most common issues:

Obstructed Field of View

An obstructed field of view is a common problem with backup cameras. This can be caused by the angle of the camera, objects blocking the lens, or issues with the camera's focus. Adjusting the angle or cleaning the lens can often resolve this issue.

Inadequate Range of Vision

If you find that your backup camera doesn't provide a wide enough field of view, you may need to adjust its angle or position. This is particularly important if you drive a larger vehicle, as the camera's position may need to be higher to account for the vehicle's size.

Camera Angle Too High or Too Low

If your backup camera is angled too high, you may not be able to see the ground clearly, which can make parking and manoeuvring difficult. On the other hand, if the camera is angled too low, you may not be able to see directly behind the vehicle, which can be dangerous when reversing. Adjusting the camera angle can help ensure you have the necessary visibility.

License Plate or Bumper in View

In some cases, the backup camera may be positioned in such a way that it captures the license plate or bumper in the frame. This can reduce the effective viewing area and impact your ability to see obstacles clearly. Adjusting the camera angle or position can help resolve this issue.

Hardware Damage

Hardware damage to the camera or its components, such as the lens or stabilizer, can also cause issues with your backup camera. If you notice any physical damage to the camera, it's important to have it repaired or replaced by a professional.

Dirty or Damaged Lens

A dirty, muddy, or dusty lens can result in blurry images. Cleaning the lens with a soft microfiber cloth or a lens-cleansing solution can help improve image quality. Additionally, if your vehicle is in a humid environment, condensation can build up on the lens and cause issues.

Loose or Broken Wires

If the wires connecting the backup camera to the screen are loose or damaged, you may experience a distorted image or a blank screen. In this case, tightening the connections or replacing the wires may be necessary.

How to adjust the camera angle

There are many reasons why you might need to adjust the angle of your car camera. The angle may not be to your preference, or the camera may not have been installed properly. Here are some common reasons for adjusting your camera angle:

• You can see the license plate or the bumper
• The field of view is obstructed
• There is not enough range of vision
• The camera is angled too high or too low

First, it is recommended to get a second person to help with the adjustments. One person can move the camera while the other watches the monitors and directs the adjustment.

Adjusting the camera will depend on the type of camera and how it is mounted. Some cameras are easy to adjust within their casing, while others require tools to remove, adjust, and refasten.

If you need to open the camera enclosure to remove and angle the camera, you may need tools such as a flathead or Phillips screwdriver, a drill bit, washers, nuts, or grommets.

If your camera is a backup camera, adjusting the angle of the lens within the enclosure or adjusting the angle of the entire enclosure itself may be enough to get the desired angle.

If your camera is a dashcam, you will need to adjust the road-facing and driver-facing camera angles. This may involve detaching a side panel, adjusting the camera lens, and locking the camera into place.

Make sure to check the camera's position on the windshield and adjust the angle accordingly. Avoid aiming too low towards the vehicle's front hood or too high towards the sky. The recommended viewing angle is to have the front hood of the vehicle occupying 10% of the camera's view.

Different types of camera mounts

There are several types of camera mounts available for cars, each with its own unique features and benefits. Here are some of the most common types of camera mounts:

Suction Cup Mounts

Suction cup mounts are one of the most popular types of car camera mounts. They use a suction mechanism to adhere securely to smooth, non-porous surfaces such as windshields, windows, and car exteriors. Suction cup mounts are easy to install, adjustable, and can bear heavy loads, making them ideal for mounting heavy DSLR or cinema cameras. They often feature adjustable arms, extension rods, and ball joints for flexible positioning and articulation.

Clamp Mounts

Clamp mounts offer versatility by allowing you to clamp your camera to various surfaces, including car windows and doors. They are a good option for those seeking an alternative to suction cups or more permanent mounting solutions.

Window Mounts

Window mounts are specifically designed to attach cameras securely to car windows. They are typically easy to install and provide a stable platform for capturing photos or videos.

Hood Mounts

Hood mounts allow you to attach your camera to the hood of your car, providing a unique perspective for filming or photography. They are designed to securely hold your camera without damaging the vehicle's exterior.

Shock Absorbers

While not a mounting option themselves, shock absorbers are used in conjunction with camera mounts to reduce vibrations and stabilise footage. They function as vibration isolators, improving the effectiveness of handheld gimbals and reducing strain on their motors and bearings.

Side Mounts

Side mounts attach to the side of your vehicle, providing a mounting option for cameras, especially when used in conjunction with suction cups or clamps.

Magnetic Mounts

Magnetic mounts utilise strong magnets to attach cameras securely to the car's body, often to the hood or side. They are a good option for quick and easy mounting without the need for suction cups or clamps.

When choosing a camera mount, consider your specific needs, the weight of your camera, the desired mounting location, and the level of stability required for your footage.

Frequently asked questions