One of the most common questions we get from retailers is this:
“Can I use my existing CCTV cameras for in/out counting at the entrance?”
On paper, it seems like a smart, cost-effective idea. After all, the cameras are already there—why not just add counting functionality?
But here’s the reality: despite the logic, we’ve yet to see any retailer successfully deploy a reliable entrance counting solution using standard CCTV cameras. In fact, many who’ve attempted it ended up frustrated—eventually reverting back to dedicated people counting sensors.
So, what’s the problem?
The Problem Is Inconsistent Accuracy
CCTV cameras were designed for security, not analytics. As a result, they fall short when used for entrance counting. Here’s why:
- Sunlight Interference: Entrance areas are exposed to direct sunlight, casting shadows and causing glare—factors that severely impact image quality and accuracy in most CCTV systems.
- Poor Viewing Angles: Most CCTV cameras are wall-mounted with a side view to monitor theft or suspicious behaviour. This angle often results in people occluding each other, making accurate counting nearly impossible.
- Misaligned Purpose: Security teams install CCTV for monitoring, not analytics. The placement is rarely ideal for counting entrances, especially in high-traffic areas with narrow doorways.
So, What’s the Alternative?
At FootfallCam, we provide both people counting systems and advanced AI-powered CCTV analytics (our Centroid solution). So we’re not biased when we say this:
If you’re looking to count people at the entrance, use a dedicated people counter.
For example, our Pro2 or Pro1 sensor is a top-down fisheye camera designed specifically for accurate, reliable counting—even in difficult lighting conditions. It’s also surprisingly affordable—often cheaper than a typical CCTV camera.
Trying to make standard CCTV do the job of a dedicated people counter is like using a wrench to hammer a nail—it might work occasionally, but not reliably.
If your goal is consistent, actionable footfall data, choose the right tool for the job. A small investment in the right sensor can make all the difference in your business decisions.
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