On 06/06/2018 19:58, Cynic wrote:
We've got simple cctv cameras with IR illuminator around the lens up at the local hall. Lately there's been a problem with boy racers gathering after dark in the car park and antisocial behaviour ensues.
The cars can be viewed but reflective number plates are just a washout presumably caused by the direct reflection of the IR. Has anyone had success in capturing readable images of number plates after dark using economic cameras? I'm guessing the use of a non illuminated camera with a separate illuminator from an angled location might solve the reflection washout of the image but the hall doesn't want to spend funds without being sure it will work.


Its just a case of getting the exposure correct.
To do so may be impossible with some cameras.
The best way is with manual control so you park a car there and set the
exposure so you can read the plate.

Of course this means the rest of the field of view will be pitch black
which is why multiple cameras are used.

You could try moving the IR source away from the camera so it doesn't
reflect straight back but watch the shadows as they will lose detail.