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Live streaming Live streaming The Ultimate Guide for live streaming Blog

Aug 11, 2022

The first stage is often the most difficult. Where do you begin? There are plenty of ways to start off on the right foot. This post will cover details about what you need to go live your first time.

By the end of this article, you'll be aware of what you can do to live stream and what equipment is required that is suitable for all budgets, and the various ways to live stream that can help you find the ideal platform for streaming your incredible videos.

In this article

How to get started by streaming live

Before jumping into streaming it is important to take a look at streaming content.

There are plenty of highly produced multi-cam show all over the world, but that doesn't mean everybody has to spend a fortune just to start. Remember: your gear and set-up will only get your camera so far. It's everything about the content.

Take a moment to think about the most recent video chat with your friends or relatives. Perhaps you had a catch-up or shared a meal. Similar to your last video conversation, live streaming can serve an obvious goal of being real-time connected in an engaging manner.

Live streaming is live streamed for the first time ever

Here's a checklist of equipment that you'll require prior to beginning live streaming:

  • Audio input
  • Camera input
  • Switcher and encoder
  • Internet bandwidth
  • Live streaming platform

Conditions of Live streaming

Before we move on, there are few terms you'll need to be aware of. This is only the tip of the iceberg to aid in your efforts to understand streaming concepts for your first attempt.

  • Bitrate is the speed that data travels from point A to point B. It is typically expressed in kilobytes per second but it could be different depending on various factors, including: connectivity between the receiver and source network along with resolution, video compression as well as other factors.
  • Compression when used in conjunction with live streaming. Compression improves processing efficiency by decreasing the size that the streaming video. The standard used in the industry for this is H.264 (better called MPEG-4). This compression is used for both our live and uploaded videos.
  • Coding/transcoding If video is initially recorded, it's recorded in various formats, based on the type of device that you are using. Coding, also called transcodingis the method to convert raw, analog, or broadcast-quality video files into Digital format.
  • Frames Frames are the series of still images that compose the video. Think of them as the pages in the book. The smaller the amount of motion per frame and the greater number of frames per second, the smoother and more fluid the video. Frames are calculated in terms of frames per second (FPS) that is the quantity of frames that are shown in a video.
  • Redundancy A range of backup options are available when streaming live. Live stream that is fully redundant comprises backup camera feeds, stream of backup data sources coming out of the mixer, backup RTMP streams, and various backup signal types. Backup encoders are included for every master feed as well as backup stream or profiles to playback, in addition to backup CDNs from which each stream is provided from.
  • Switcher is also known as the "video mixer" or "vision mixer" switches are devices used to select between several various video sources. Sometimes, switches are used to composit (mixing) videos from different sources to produce unique effects.

1. Pick your camera, and then audio

We'll look at some of the best options for you to set up the setup of streaming, especially for beginners. If you're looking to stream easily it is possible to use a smartphone or use the built-in webcam to start.

Whichever audio or video setup you select, be sure your presentation appears stunning with these tips:

  • Pick a clean, modern background
  • Make sure you speaker/presenter is situated in the middle of the frame.
  • Make sure to set up lighting or to make use of natural light your face and not behind .
  • Find a quiet place and block out any background noise
  • Keep things as static as is possible, and minimize the amount of movement.

If you're looking to improve the quality of your audio and image to professional standards, here are some great ideas that you can explore with regard to your lighting and cameras and audio.

Entry-level recommendations:  Camera: Mevo Start ($399)
   Microphone: Rode VideoMic ($150)
  The lighting: Aputure MC ($90)

Intermediate-level recommendations:  
  Camera: Canon XA15 ($1,800)
  Microphone: Rode ProCaster ($229)
  Lighting Ring light kits from Neewer ($19-$110)

Professional-level recommendations:  
   Camera: PMW 300 ($7,500)
   Microphone: Shure SM7B ($399)
   Audio Mixer: RodeCaster Pro audio mixer ($599)
  The light: Aputure 300dii ($1,100)

2. Pick a switcher and an encoder

When you've got your video and audio sources secure, you'll need consider switching devices and encoders.

Software encoders

An encoder is crucial to the distribution of video. It's the device that processes and transforms video data into a format that is more compatible with other platforms, such as Facebook, Youtube, Twitch and so on, ensuring that your viewers can view your video.


  Although some cameras come with built-in encoders, it is possible to employ an encoder that is hardware (more on this in the section below) or use a software encoder.

What exactly is an encoder?

An encoder is a device capable of converting videos to formats that are compatible with diverse platforms, like , Facebook, Youtube, Twitch as an example.

When determining how to pick a suitable software encoder, we focus on three important aspects.

  • Ease-of-use
  • Accessibility
  • Evergreen software

These three factors will ensure you'll get an encoder that's easy to use , and also has tech assistance.

Hardware encoders

Hardware encoders work best for pushing video of high-quality as well as audio and several video and camera sources into your stream.

If you're looking for the right gear recommendation to use your hardware encoder is covered. Here are some basic equipment are required for the one (or several) Studio HD550 switcher to serve as your primary encoder.

Switchers

A switcher performs exactly what it's name implies. It allows producers to switch between video and audio sources. They are usually used for multi-camera setups, to make sure that you have the ability to switch between shots while streaming.

Like encoders, you do have many options to choose from when switching hardware and software. But, for the first time getting started, we suggest selecting a software that combines all of the components that you'd need for both the encoding as well as switching.

Livestream Studio, which is the native encoder/switcher program, gives users the power of a live control room that can tell compelling stories.

3. Check your internet bandwidth for live streaming

Now we can deal with the issue growing in the form of connectivity.

No matter how gorgeous or professional your setup the live stream is only dependent on the quality of the connection.

Before we look at methods to get the fastest upload speed to stream There are two key terms you should be aware of.

The initial term you'll encounter is known as bitrate. It's the amount that the information you upload will go via your encoder, and then on to different streaming platforms or service providers that you've selected. The more bitrate, the higher the stream quality. But, high bitrates can also refer to massive files that could make a stream slower.

The key is to find the perfect equilibrium between the speed of your Internet connection and your bitrate. The best way to achieve this is to analyze elements like frame rate and resolution.

What's your framerate and resolution for live streaming?

Frame rate is the quantity of pictures being transmitted and projected in a second on the screen. Live streaming for live audiences online 30-frames every second (FPS) is the norm and actually, many streams opt to transmit in 60 frames per second in order to get greater clarity for sports events or video games.

The resolution of your video is the reflection of how big the video's frame. While everyone wants 4K resolution for their televisions, cameras and content it doesn't mean it's the ideal choice for streaming live. If you don't have the capacity for huge file sizes choose the better resolutions such as 1080p and 720p which are much more manageable for streaming while keeping the bitrate within a reasonable range.

4. Choose the right platform to live streaming

After having looked at the various aspects of live streaming from cameras to encoders , and finally bitrates, you're ready to pick your live streaming provider.

To begin this process it's essential to check that all is working properly and that your encoder is functioning properly to the stream key (or RTMP URL or stream address) on each platform. Some of these tools explain the various actions you'll require to perform prior to broadcasting, or even simulcasting across platforms.

  • Live for Premium and Enterprise the streamers have access to various tools that allow them to live stream the live stream of their videos as well as other events. In addition to live streaming, Premium also includes the collaboration and video hosting tools to support the workflow of your general.
  • YouTube Live: YouTube's live streaming service is a standard service that is free to utilize for free streaming.
  • Facebook Live: Facebook Live might be best for anyone looking to incorporate live streamed videos on their company's Facebook page.
  • Twitch: one of the largest names within the realm of live streamed video games, Twitch is among the most popular platforms due to its community and distinctive ways of communicating.
  • Mixer Microsoft's live streaming service is a magnet for streamers and gamers of video games, as well as competing with Twitch's fans.
  • LinkedIn Live This platform has recently been launched, LinkedIn now offers its own live streaming service that has been designed specifically for networking and business group.

A good platform should be one that is compatible with your content type you are planning to stream, as well as the target audience you want to reach.

Small businesses, influencers, brand managers, owners as well as other companies who wish to start live streaming from the beginning, offers robust support and tools to help get started.

Boost your live streaming skills

Interested in starting your own Live streaming company? Join the Experts community to access comprehensive training in the hardware, software and tools needed to start an effective live streaming company.

5 ways to maximize your bandwidth online for live streaming

Plan to test out streaming on your mobile or webcam, or with an external camera prior to the date of go-live. In other words, if you've been video chatting with your zoom phone throughout the day on your laptop at home, you might expect your live stream to appear about the same in the same circumstances.

1. Connect directly to your router whenever possible.

If you're eager to increase your streaming experience First method is to connect directly as often as you can. Connect directly to your router or modem your computer using an Ethernet cable. If you're working with a webcam or digital camera be sure to connect the device to your computer instead of relying on wireless or Bluetooth. It is generally recommended to connect physical devices to your computer using wireless connectivity. This allows you to maximize the value of the content you stream.

2. Stop and remove all other sources

Similar to the advice above when you're just beginning with, you are able to try streaming in the normal working or living environment. A different method that you may want to try is closing and removing the other sources that may be blocking your internet connection or speed. It is applicable to all devices that are Wi-Fi compatible, computer as well as the background programs that may be automatically synced and using up bandwidth.

3. Enhance your upload speed , as well as speed of download

Whichever platform you decide to make use of to stream your content, you should remember to check internet speed and bandwidth caps outlined by the Internet service provider (ISP). If you intend to stream frequently you should consider upgrading your service or choosing the ISP that can provide you with the speed of upload and bandwidth.

4. Install the buffer

Make sure you have a buffer in place to ensure you're running at a secure bitrate. This can help minimize the speed fluctuation in your broadcast. The best guideline is to keep your upload rate at 30% higher than your bitrate rate for a smooth and issue free broadcast.

5. Test extensively

When in doubt, test it out.

Try your live stream out to help you find that perfect location to enhance the components of resolution, framerate and bitrate while not having an audience in attendance. Be sure to conduct many dress rehearsals and practice run in order to make sure you are satisfied with the results.

Wrap up: start your live stream today

Live streaming can be surprisingly simple. If you put in the time and effort to set up the appropriate equipment and focusing on the bigger picture. This means focusing on your live streaming content, and also perfecting your design and aesthetic before streaming live.

After you've learned the fundamentals now is the time to go serious about streaming your content using quality, professional videos. If you're in need of an update, take a look at our tricks and suggestions to make sure that all the components of your stream are working correctly.

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