Trail cameras. I would think not to face into direct sun but just wanted to get the best from the investment. New to the camers game.
Yea if you face the sun at sunrise and sunset might get some wasted pics, the main thing I would look for is junk that will set the Camera off and take more wasted photos... tall grass swaying, limbs, Don't mount it too low unless you want squirel pics, and don't mount it too high unless you have an angled screw in style mount. I'd say most guys go about hip high, again there's a lot of preference involved. "Couldn't think of a good Signature"
You get some great set up ideas from the pics posted here ... http://forums.bowhunting.com/trail-cameras/
I started using these moultrie tree mounts they are simple and give you the ability to screw them into any tree and you dont have to worry about something bumping your camera knocking out your shims Amazon.com : Moultrie Easy Tree Mount : Moultrie Ez Tree Mount : Sports & Outdoors
Yes, put a lock on them. You never know. I use the master lock Python 3/8" cable locks from Walmart. Order them online and shipped to the store (avoid shipping cost) for about $9 each. They work great. 6' long cable. Makes you feel better about basically leaving $$$$$$$ in the woods. Will help you sleep at night.
Ive picked up a bunch of Stik-N-Pic mounts so i can put my cameras ANYWHERE. The keys to a great trail camera photo are more than the target animal...background, weather conditions, lighting all play a major role. A few simple rules, don't put your camera in the direct mid-day sun. The rising and setting sun is okay (and preferred by some), but mid day false triggers are the worst. Also...avoid areas with lots brush sway. Its going to trigger your camera as well. If your using an IR camera remember that you need something for the flash to bounce off of to create light. Fields will make you pictures seem dark. Some of my on hand pics:
I've always had good luck placingt them on mineral licks or heavily used crossings. Definitely invest in a way to secure it. Ya just never know. I try to face them just off to the side of the rising or setting sun that way they don't get too many pic's of the sun. If they do get a pic of the sun it makes it a black circle. Good Luck. Let us know how it goes.