Technical guideVideo surveillanceVersion V1.0

Practical guide to selecting video surveillance cameras

SSP Academy practical guide to help technicians and integrators select a video surveillance camera based on the client's needs, the scene, the distance, the required level of detail, lighting, the environment and system compatibility. A structured field method to avoid choices based solely on resolution or commercial specifications.

8 pagesAugust 2026

Video surveillance CCTV Surveillance camera Camera selection DORI

Practical guide to selecting video surveillance cameras

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Practical guide to selecting video surveillance cameras — page 1

Overview

Choosing a camera is not simply a matter of comparing megapixels, infrared range or smart functions.

A relevant selection starts with analysing the client's actual needs, the area to monitor, the distance, the required level of detail, the lighting conditions and theinstallation environment.

In this practical guide, SSP Academy offers a structured method:

Need → Scene → Level of detail → Technical criteria → Compatibility → Validation

You will discover in particular the main points to check before selecting a camera for an entrance, a car park, a corridor, a checkout, a reception area or an outdoor perimeter.

This document is a selection support guide. It complements the knowledge gained in SSP Academy's Video Surveillance training courses and does not replace learning sizing methods.

Video Surveillance Series · Guide 01 — Design and production: SMATI Abdelouahad
Low-Current Systems Expert (CFA) · Senior Trainer · Certified Trainer of Trainers · Technical Director — SSP Group

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