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How to live stream Blog

Aug 11, 2022

But taking that first step is usually one of the hardest. Where do you begin? There are a lot of resources to assist you in hitting with a bang. In this article we'll walk you through the ins and outs of how to go live for the first time.

When you're done reading this article, you'll be aware of how you can live stream, which equipment is needed for every budget, and the different live streaming platforms that will aid you in finding the best option to stream your stunning content.

In this article

Beginning by streaming live

Before jumping into a streaming setup, let's start with first the video.

There's a lot of well produced multi-cam shows all over the globe However, that does not mean that everyone has to pay a significant amount of money in order to begin. Be aware that the equipment you use and settings can only get your to the limit the most important thing is the content that you give out.

Take a moment to think about your last video chat with your friends and family. Perhaps it was a time for catching up or sharing a dinner. Similar to your previous live videoconference, streaming video has one purpose in common: Connect in a genuine and informal way.

How do you live stream your first time?

This list can help you decide what items you'll need to have prior to beginning live streaming.

  • Audio input
  • Camera input
  • The encoder and switcher
  • Internet bandwidth
  • Live streaming platform

The terms of live streaming

Before moving to the next phase, we need to know a few words you'll need to know. They're just the tip of an Iceberg to aid you to understand the world of streaming at first.

  • Bitrate The rate at which data is transported from one location to another. It's typically measured by kilobytes/second however, it may vary based on different factors, including sources and network connection of the receiver and video compression, resolution, and more.
  • Compression In the case of live streaming Compression enhances the effectiveness of processing, by decreasing the dimension of the video stream. The standard used by the sector is H.264 (better than MPEG-4). The compression used is for both our uploaded and live streaming videos.
  • Encoding/transcoding: when video first is recorded, it exists in a range of formats depending on your device. The process of encoding, also known as transcoding is the process of turning raw, analog, or broadcast video files to the digital format.
  • Frames: the series of still photographs that form the video. Think of these like the pages of a flip book. The motion is less in every frame. And the higher amount of frames per second, the smoother the video. Frames are measured by the number the number of frames per second (FPS) also known as the number of frames that can be displayed in a video.
  • Redundancy The HTML0 Redundancy function comes with various backup options when streaming live. Live streams that are fully redundant includes backup camera feeds, streams from backup data from the mixer and backup RTMP streams as well as backup signal types. backup encoders which are unique to each master feed as well as backup streams and profiles to playback, as well as backup CDNs that each stream is receiving service from.
  • Switcher Sometimes called "video mixer" or "vision mixer" a switcher is a device that allows you to select from a range of sources for video. In certain instances, switchers can be used for compositing (mixing) video sources together for creating specific effects.

1. Select your camera and choose the audio.

Let's look into the most effective options for setting up the configuration of your streaming . This is especially helpful for those who are new to the process. If you're looking streaming without difficulty, then you could utilize a smartphone or built-in webcam to start.

No matter which audio or video format you choose to utilize be sure your audio and video broadcasts are amazing by following these tips:

  • Choose a modern, clean background
  • Be sure that your presenter or speaker is in the middle of the frame.
  • Make sure you have lights in or natural light front of you, not behind .
  • Find a quiet area and remove background noise
  • Make sure that you keep everything static and limit the movement

If you're looking to boost the quality of your audio as well as your image to the professional levels, here are some great options to improve your lighting and cameras, as well as audio.

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

Intermediate-level recommendations:  
  Camera: Canon XA15 ($1,800)
  Microphone Rode ProCaster ($229)
  Lights: The Neewer ring is lit ($19-$110)

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

2. Choose an encoder and switcher

When you've got your videos and audio channels secured, you'll need examine switchers as well as encoders.

Software encoders

An encoder is critical for the dissemination of videos. This is the software that processes and converts the video's data to a format more suitable for different platforms like Facebook, Youtube, Twitch and more and ensures that the viewers can view your videos.


  Although some cameras are equipped with encoders, others will require an actual encoder (more on this in the next section) or employ a software encoder.

What is an encoder?

An encoder is a piece made of technology that can process and transcoding video information into a format that is suitable for various platforms including Facebook, Youtube, Twitch, etc.

If we are looking at the best way to select an encoder software We will concentrate on three key aspects.

  • Ease-of-use
  • Accessibility
  • Evergreen software

The three elements listed above ensure that you receive an encoder with ease of use and comes with the necessary technical support.

Hardware encoders

Hardware encoders should be used for pushing high-quality video and audio, as well as a variety of cameras and video sources to your streaming.

If you're trying to figure some of the most reliable gear recommendations to use your encoder's hardware is taken care of. Here are some of the most basic items you'll need centered around one (or several) Studio HD550 switcher as your primary encoder.

Switchers

A switcher performs exactly what it's name implies. It allows the producer to change between audio and video sources. It is commonly used to create multi-camera configurations, so you can switch between shots while streaming.

As with encoders too and switchers, there are many alternatives for switching between software and hardware. However, for your first starting out you should look into the software that has all the necessary components for both encoders and switchers.

Livestream Studio, which is  its native encoder/switcher software, offers users with the ability to create a live control room for telling compelling stories.

3. Check your internet bandwidth for live streaming

Let's now tackle one of the biggest issues that is connectivity.

However nice or professional your setup may be, your live stream is only depending on your connection to the internet.

We will go over the steps to obtain the fastest speed of upload for streaming, here are two terms you need to know.

The first term is called bitrate. This refers to the rate that the information you upload is processed by your encoder and out onto the various streaming services or platforms you've chosen. The more bitrate you've got more quality streaming. However, higher bitrates also signify a larger size of data that could result in slowing down a stream.

It's crucial to strike the ideal balance between the bandwidth of your connection and your bitrate. One way to do this is by considering factors like frame rate and resolution.

What is your frame rate and resolution when streaming live?

Frame rate refers to the number of images which are broadcast and displayed every second on the display. If live streaming is broadcast to online audiences 30-frames every second (FPS) is accepted as the standard it is evident that the majority of streams opt to stream in 60 frames per second in order to get better clarity when it comes to sports or video games.

Resolution is the measure of the frame is used to stream the video. While everyone is looking for 4K resolution on their TVs as well as cameras, that isn't necessarily the best choice for live streaming. If you're not equipped enough to handle the massive size of files, look at smaller resolutions like 1080p or 720p. These can be more easily managed for streaming. You can also maintain your bitrate in an acceptable range.

4. Choose the right platform for live stream

After you've examined all the elements of live streaming, from cameras to encoders to bitrates, you're now ready to choose your preferred live streaming provider.

Before beginning the broadcast, it's important to ensure that all data is synced, and the encoder is linked to streaming keys (or RTMP URL or stream address) for each platform. The majority of these choices describe the many steps you'll require to perform prior to broadcasting or simulcasting across different platforms.

  • Live for Premium and Enterprise streams, users have access to a variety of tools to stream live your videos and events. Alongside Live streaming features, Premium also includes all video hosting and collaboration tools which will improve the process in general.
  • YouTube Live YouTube Live service is a standard service, which is available for free use for low-cost streaming.
  • Facebook Live: Facebook Live may be the ideal choice for those looking to add live streaming videos to their company's Facebook page.
  • Twitch Twitch: One of the most well-known names in live video streaming. Twitch ranks among most popular platforms because of its popularity and its niche style of video content.
  • Mixer: Microsoft's live streaming platform attracts gamers and streamers of video games as well as competing with Twitch's viewers.
  • LinkedIn Live Recently launched, LinkedIn now offers its live streaming service that is specially designed for businesses and social networking communities.

The ideal platform should be one that is compatible with the video type you intend to stream and also your target audience you'd like to reach out to.

Small-scale entrepreneurs or influencers as well as brands who are thinking about what to do to create a live stream at all, offers robust support and tools to help start off with the right foundation.

Boost your live streaming skills

Do you want to start a live streaming business? Participate in the Experts community and gain access to in-depth courses on the gear that includes tools, software, and equipment you need for a successful business for live streaming.

5 ways to maximize your bandwidth on the internet for live streaming

You should test the stream with your smartphone, web cam, or any other camera before the live date. That is, if you're used video-chatting with your zoom phone every day on your laptop sitting on your couch You might expect your stream you live stream to be like the same under similar conditions.

1. Connect directly to your router whenever possible.

If you're looking to increase the quality of your streaming, one easy step is to connect as soon as you are able. This means going directly through your router or modem, and then connecting to your computer via an Ethernet cable. If you're working with an online camera or digital camera ensure you connect your device directly to your laptop instead of by using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. The general rule is that you use physical devices that are wirelessly connected. This helps you get the most from the amount of streams you can get.

2. Remove and close all other sources

Similar to the advice given previously that you're just starting out, it's acceptable to try out streaming using your usual workplace conditions. Another trick that you might consider trying is to turn off and eliminate the other sources that could be hindering your internet connection and speed. That includes other wireless devices, laptops, and any background applications that could be automatically synced , and taking the bandwidth.

3. Enhance the speed at which you upload files and bandwidth

Whichever platform you decide to stream your content from, make sure to check internet speed limits and bandwidth restrictions that are set by your internet service provider (ISP). If you intend to live stream regularly think about upgrading your subscription or choosing an ISP that can supply the possibility of increasing your bandwidth and upload speeds.

4. Make an area of buffer

Check that you've got a buffer in place to ensure you're operating at a stable bitrate. This helps decrease the speed of your broadcast. A good rule of thumb is to maintain your upload speed about 30 percent higher than your bitrate speed for a stable and uninterrupted broadcast.

5. Test extensively

If you're not certain you're not sure, try it.

Your live stream will enable you to determine the ideal spot to maximize factors like frame rate, resolution and bitrate without the possibility of having to entertain an audience. It is important to do several dress rehearsals or a practice the run until you are satisfied with your results.

Wrap up: start your live stream today

Live streaming can be surprisingly simple. If you are able to get the right equipment, you will be able to focus on the bigger picture. It is about focusing on your live streaming content as well as enhancing your own design and aesthetic prior to live streaming.

Now that you've covered the basics, you're ready to take the plunge and start streaming your content via quality, professional videos. If you need some refreshers, check out our tips and tricks to ensure every element of your stream is properly.

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