The Best Placement For Your Internal Car Camera

Car camera mounts are essential for capturing footage inside or outside of your vehicle. They can be useful for recording your drives, monitoring fuel efficiency, or even keeping an eye on your child's safety while on the road. There are various types of car camera mounts available, including dashboard mounts, window mounts, and rearview camera mounts. Dashboard mounts are typically attached using suction cups, adhesive pads, or magnets, while window mounts often use suction cups for easy installation and removal. Rearview camera mounts are also available for those who want to record what's happening behind their vehicle.

Additionally, there are DIY options for creating your own car camera mounts with household items or inexpensive materials. These DIY mounts can be attached to the dashboard, license plate, or headrest, providing stable and affordable solutions for capturing footage from different angles.

Window mounts for a side view

When mounting a camera inside your car, it's important to consider the type of camera, your intended use, and the stability of the mount.

Window mounts are a great option for side-view cameras, and there are several options available. Here are some detailed instructions and considerations for installing a side-view camera with a window mount:

Choosing the Right Window Mount

• Consider the weight of your camera setup. Heavier cameras and lenses may require a more heavy-duty mount, such as the Kirk Multi-Purpose Window Mount, which can handle equipment up to 800mm.
• Look for a mount with adjustable height and stability features. The Eckla Eagle, for example, is a versatile option that allows for height adjustments and is known for its stability.
• Ensure the mount has rubber-coated feet or pads to avoid scratching your car's interior and windows.
• If you plan to use a flash with your camera, consider mounting the bracket outside the vehicle so that the flash is positioned correctly.

Installing the Window Mount

• Clean the window surface to ensure the best adhesion for your mount.
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions for attaching the mount to the window. This may involve the use of suction cups, clamps, or adhesive pads.
• Ensure that the mount is securely attached and stable. You don't want it to come loose while driving, causing potential damage to your equipment.
• Consider the positioning of the mount to avoid obstructing your view or interfering with the car's functionality.

Mounting the Camera

• Once the window mount is securely in place, attach your camera according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Test the stability of the setup by gently trying to move the camera. Ensure it doesn't shift or wobble with regular driving movements.
• Adjust the camera angle to capture the desired field of view. Consider connecting to a smartphone app to get a live view and make precise adjustments.
• If needed, use a right-angle viewfinder to capture high or low subjects without obstructing your view through the camera.

Remember to always focus on the road while driving and to be mindful of local laws and regulations regarding camera usage in vehicles.

Dashboard mounts for head-on shots

Dashboard mounts are a great option for mounting an internal car camera, offering a stable base for your device. Here are some tips and product suggestions for dashboard mounts to achieve head-on shots:

DIY Dashboard Mounts:

If you're feeling creative, you can make your own dashboard mount with basic materials. MHN Productions, for example, designed a dashboard base plate that only requires a piece of wood, four rubber feet, and a bolt. This simple design provides a stable platform for your camera.

Another innovative idea is Ben Gill's $10 sponge dashboard mount. This mount uses a peanut sponge, a rug pad, and some weights to hold your camera in place. This low-cost solution is perfect if you're using a light camera.

Commercial Dashboard Mounts:

If you prefer a ready-made solution, there are numerous commercial dashboard mounts available. Here are some popular options:

• ARKON Windshield or Dash Camera Car Mount: This mount is compatible with smaller digital cameras with a 1/4-20 mounting pattern, such as the Sony 4K or JVC ADIXXION. It features a PVC suction cup that performs well in hot climates and attaches easily with a one-touch lever.
• NEEWER 6" Camera Suction Cup Mount: This mount features a metal suction cup and a ball head magic arm for flexibility. It's compatible with various cameras and phones and can be used on the windshield or dashboard.
• COOAU Car Dash Cam Mounting Bracket: This adjustable windshield mount is suitable for COOAU dash cameras and features a suction cup base for easy installation.
• Haloview Non-Slip Beanbag Dashboard Friction Mount: This unique mount uses a non-slip beanbag design to provide a stable base for your camera. It's compatible with the Haloview MC7108, MC7108 BT7, and MC5111 RD7 models.
• Universal Dash Cam Mount Rear View Mirror Holder: This versatile mount is compatible with a wide range of dash cameras, including models from APEMAN, Falcon, and Old Shark. It features 16 different joints for adjustability.
• CH01B 1/4" Thread Camera Mount: This mini adhesive mount is compatible with various camera brands, including Sony, Ricoh, and GoPro. It provides a permanent and discreet mounting solution.

When choosing a dashboard mount, consider the weight of your camera, the stability of the mount, and the ease of installation and adjustment. These factors will ensure you get clear and stable head-on shots from your internal car camera.

Car mounts for through-the-windscreen shots

When mounting a dashcam to your windscreen, there are a few things to consider to ensure the best footage and driving experience. Firstly, check that the dashcam lens is not pointing through a tinted sunshade or shaded dots at the top of the windscreen, as this can interfere with the camera's view. Secondly, ensure that the dashcam is within the range of the windshield wipers so that the lens can capture video even on rainy or snowy days. Thirdly, position the dashcam so that it is out of the driver's sight and does not obstruct their view. Finally, make sure that the dashcam has enough room to slide off the mounting bracket for easy removal.

The optimal position for a dashcam is high up and in the middle of the windshield, behind the rearview mirror. This position provides a clear, eye-level view of the road with minimal obstruction. It is also easy to detach the camera from the windshield since it is a flat surface. However, ensure that the dashcam wires do not impede basic driver functions like wiper operation. If you are using a suction cup mount, you can easily remove, reposition, and reattach your camera.

Another option for mounting a dashcam is on the dashboard, at the centre, next to the rearview mirror's mounting point. This position keeps the dashcam out of the driver's sight and avoids windshield glare interference. However, mounting the camera on the dashboard may make it more vulnerable to movements when taking sharp corners or applying emergency brakes. Ensure that there are no obstacles like sunshades or dots blocking the camera and that the dashcam is mounted at a 120- to 140-degree angle to capture a wider view of the road.

Hostess tray for shooting through the window

The Modern Hostess Tray Car Mount is a popular choice for filming inside a car. This mount attaches to the side door of a car, allowing you to shoot through an open window. It is a standard window mount that grips are familiar with. The mount is built with a cheese plate platform for easy camera mounting and positioning, and it also comes with a ball mount for rigging.

There are various DIY options for creating your own camera mounts for inside your car. For example, you can create a dashboard base plate with a piece of wood, four rubber feet, and a bolt. Alternatively, a $10 sponge dashboard mount can be made with a peanut sponge, a rug pad, and weights for a light camera.

The Modern Hostess Tray Car Mount is a great option if you're looking for a standard, reliable window mount. However, if you're feeling creative and want to save some money, you might want to try making your own DIY camera mount.

Rear-view camera to capture scenes behind the vehicle

A rear-view camera is a video camera specifically designed to be attached to the rear of a vehicle to aid in reversing and reduce the rear blind spot. When choosing a rear-view camera, it is important to consider the camera's compatibility with your vehicle, as some models are designed to fit specific makes and models.

There are several options for mounting a rear-view camera to capture scenes behind your vehicle:

• License Plate Mount: This option allows for installation without any permanent vehicle modifications. The camera can be mounted directly onto the license plate frame, and some models include features such as infrared lights or LEDs to illuminate the surroundings.
• Rear Window Mount: The camera can be installed on the rear window of your vehicle using an adhesive pad. This option provides a clear view of the scenes behind the vehicle and is adjustable to accommodate different window angles.
• Tailgate Handle Mount: This option is suitable for vehicles with a tailgate, such as SUVs or trucks. The camera is mounted on the tailgate handle, providing a clear view of the rear of the vehicle.
• Spare Tire Mount: If your vehicle has a spare tire mounted on the rear, you can install the camera on or near the spare tire. This option ensures that the camera has a clear line of sight to capture scenes behind the vehicle.
• Built-in Rear-View Mirror: Some vehicles have displays integrated into the rear-view mirror, allowing you to see the footage from the rear-view camera. This option provides a seamless and discreet way to monitor the scenes behind your vehicle.

When installing a rear-view camera, it is important to consider the camera's angle and positioning to ensure that it captures a wide enough field of view. Additionally, features such as night vision or infrared lights can enhance the camera's performance in low-light conditions.

Frequently asked questions