Stable Ground
Before you mount the camera, make sure the ground where you plan on mounting it is stable. This also applies if you're placing the camera on a higher surface such as a tree. Placing the camera on a surface that's not level can cause the camera to fall over or tip over at the crucial moment. If you're in a rocky or hilly area, consider using a tripod or another piece of equipment to keep the camera stable.
Detection
When you mount an outdoor camera, you risk scaring off the animals that you're trying to photograph. Frequent trips into the woods to check the camera can do the same thing. The best thing to do is find an area that isn't intrusive but is still part of the area where animals move about. Once you place the camera in that spot, leave it alone for several days at least and avoid checking it every day or several times a day.
Placement
Before you mount your camera, think about its placement. Think about what you're trying to capture on film; if it's an animal, mount the camera a few feet above that animal's line of sight. Any type of flash can scare animals and make them avoid the area. Also, they can detect the light before it goes off. This includes the infrared flashes that some companies are now using. Placing the camera higher than the animal's line of sight lets you get better pictures because the animals can't detect the flash and they won't run away because of it.
Step Back
When you have a good spot, take another few steps back before mounting the camera. Remember that the camera has a smaller range than your eyes; what looks good to you won't necessarily look good through the camera. Also, consider setting up the camera and taking a few test shots before mounting it outside.
Protection
Leaving your camera outside results in a host of problems caused by animals and other forces of nature such as wind and rain. If you plan on leaving your camera outside for an extended period of time, invest in some protection. Look for cameras with waterproofing materials such as polyurethane or geomembrane and call your insurance company to ensure it covers the cost of the camera in case something happens.
