How to live stream: the ultimate guide Blog

The first step is usually the hardest. Where do you begin? Thankfully, there are tools to help you hit the ground running. We'll break down the ins and outs of the things you'll need to know before going live your first time.

When you're done reading this post, you'll know the best ways to live stream, gear to suit every budget, as well as the various platforms for live streaming that will help you locate the right destination for your amazing video.

In this article

•    Getting started with live streaming
•    How do you live stream the very first time
•    5 ways to maximize your bandwidth on the internet to stream live

How to get started by streaming live

Before diving into the streaming system first, we need to look at first the content.

There's plenty of professionally producedmulti-cam shows around the world, however, it does not mean that everyone has to break the bank for a start. Be aware that the equipment you use and setup can only get you so far -- the most important thing is your content.

Take a moment to think about your most recent video call with friends and family. Maybe you were catching up or sharing a food. Just like your last video call Live streaming serves a simple purpose: to make connections in a genuine and conversational way.

How do you live stream the first time?

This is a list of the equipment you'll need before you start live streaming:

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

Live streaming terms

Before we go further, there are few terms you'll need to be aware of. This is just the tip of the iceberg that will assist you in navigating streaming language at first.

• Bitrate The rate at which data is transported from one point to B. It's usually measured in kilobytes per second, and can vary according to a range of factors, including: source and receiver network connections and video compression. Also, the resolution and much more.
• Compression within the stream compression improves processing efficiency by decreasing the overall dimension of the video stream. The industry standard for this is H.264 (better known as MPEG-4). uses this compression for our live and uploaded videos.
• Transcoding or encoding in the moment that video footage is initially recorded, it exists in one of a variety of formats based on the device. Coding -- also referred to as transcoding -- refers to the process of turning raw, analog, or broadcast video file formats to digital video files.
• Frames The series of still photos that compose your video. Consider them as pages of a book. The less motion per frame and the more frames per second, smoother the video. They're determined in terms of frames per second (FPS), aka the number of frames displayed in a second video.
• Redundancy A variety of backup methods when streaming live. A fully redundant live set includes backup camera feeds, stream of backup data coming out of the mixer, backup RTMP streams and backup signal types. backup encoders for each master feed, backup streams or profiles to playback, as well as backup CDNs for each stream is serving from.
• Switcher is also known as a "video mixer" or "vision mixer" switchers are device used to select from a range of different sources. In some cases, switchers can be used for compositing (mixing) video sources for creating special effects.

1. Select your preferred camera and sound.

Let's dig into some of the best options for the setup of your streaming for novices. If you're looking streaming without stress, then you could use a smartphone or integrated webcams to begin.

Whatever video and audio setup you choose, make sure that your video and audio broadcast is stunning by adhering to the following guidelines:

• Make sure you have a neat, attractive background
• Make sure you speaker/presenter is placed on the middle of the frame
• Make sure you have lights on or using natural light the front of you, and not behind you.
• Find a quiet area and eliminate background noises
• Keep things as static as possible and minimize movements

If you're looking to improve your image and audio quality up to the professional level There are some excellent ideas you can explore for your cameras or lighting, as well as 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 kit from Neewer's ($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. Select an encoder and switcher

When you've got all your video and audio sources secured, you'll have to examine switchers and encoders.

Software encoders

A encoder is essential for video distribution. It's the tool that process and converts the video's data into a format that is more compatible with different platforms, such as Facebook, Youtube, Twitch and so on, so that your viewers can watch your content.

While some cameras have built-in encoders, you may need use a hardware encoder (more about that in the next section) or an encoder software.

What is an encoder?

A encoder is a piece of equipment that can process and transform the video content into a format suitable for various platforms, such as , Facebook, Youtube, Twitch and many more.

In determining the best way to select an software encoder it is important to consider three key factors.

• Ease-of-use
• Accessibility
• Evergreen software

The three elements listed above will guarantee you have an encoder that's easy to use with the necessary technical support.

Hardware encoders

Hardware encoders should be used for pushing video of high-quality, audio, and many video and camera sources into your stream.

And for those seeking out the best equipment recommendations to use with your hardware encoder kit We've got it all covered. Below are a few basic pieces of gear that are required for one (or more) Studio HD550 switcher to be your primary encoder.

• AJA HD5DA HD-SDI Distribution Amplifiers
•   Datavideo DAC70 Up/Down/Cross Converter
•   AJA HD10AMA Audio Embedder
•   Netgear GS105 5-Port Network Switch
• 100' BNC and Cat 6 cables
• 3' Cat 6 and HD-SDI cables

Switchers

A switcher does exactly what it's name implies. It lets producers switch between different sources of audio and video. These are typically used in multi-camera sets-ups to ensure that you can switch between shots while streaming.

Similar to encoders, there are several options to choose from for both switching software and hardware. But, for the first time starting out, We recommend choosing a program that combines all the elements required for encoding and switching.

Livestream Studio, which is  the native software for switching and encoders allows users to harness the power of live control room that can tell captivating stories.

3. Check your internet bandwidth for live streaming

Let's now tackle the issue that is looming the issue of connectivity.

No matter how nice or professional the setup is, your live stream can only be dependent on the quality of your connection.

Before we discuss ways to achieve the most efficient upload speeds for your streaming There are two words that you must know.

The most important term is called bitrate. It is the speed at which your information will be uploaded through your encoder and out onto the different streaming platforms or services you've chosen. In general, the greater the bitrate the higher the quality of the stream. However, increased bitrates may indicate large size of data, which can slow down stream.

The trick is to find an appropriate balance between your bitrate and your connection. A way to accomplish this is by considering aspects like your frame rate and resolution.

What is your frame rate and resolution for live streaming?

Your frame rate is the amount of pictures that are transmitted and displayed per second on the screen. When live streaming to live audiences online 30 frames per second (FPS) is accepted as the standard it is true that many streams opt to transmit at 60 frames per second in order to get more detail for sports or videos games.

Your resolution reflects the size of the frame in your video. The fact that everyone desires 4K video for their televisions, cameras as well as content, it doesn't mean it's the most effective option for streaming live. If you don't have the capacity for the huge size of files, think about the more sensible resolutions, like 1080p and 720p, which can be more easily managed for streaming, and keep your rate of bitrate in a sensible range.

4. Choose the right platform for live streaming

Once you've considered all the different aspects of live streaming from cameras, encoders and bitrates, it's time to select your live streaming service.

In order to begin the process, you'll want to make sure everything is synced and your encoder is properly connected with streams keys (or RTMP URL or stream address) for each platform. Most of these options explain the various procedures you'll have to take before broadcasting or simulcasting to multiple platforms.

• Live for Premium and Enterprise accounts, streamers have access to a suite of live streaming software for your videos and events. Apart from live streaming, Premium also includes all of the video hosting and collaboration tools to support your entire workflow.
• YouTube Live YouTube Live service is a basic, free-to-use offering for affordable streaming.
• Facebook Live: Facebook Live might be best for those looking to add live streamed content on their business' Facebook page.
• Twitch is one of the largest brands in live video game streaming, Twitch is one of the most well-known platforms thanks to its community and niche styles of media.
• Mixer Live streaming from Microsoft's platform attracts video game streamers and competes with Twitch's fans.
• LinkedIn Live The platform was recently introduced, LinkedIn now offers its live streaming service that is specifically designed specifically for networking and business community.

The most appropriate platform will complement the type of video content you are planning to stream as well the audience you want to engage.

For smaller entrepreneurs, influencers and marketers, and brands that are looking into how to setup live streams for the first time It provides a solid support system and tools to help get started with the right way.

Boost your live streaming skills

Are you interested in starting your own Live streaming company? Sign up to the Experts community for detailed training on the equipment as well as the software and other tools needed to start the perfect live streaming business.

Five tips for optimizing your bandwidth on the internet for live streaming

Plan to test out your live stream on your smartphone, web cam, or external camera prior to your live date. In other words, if you're used to video chat on zoom calls all day using your laptop from the couch, it's possible that your live stream to look about the same under those identical situations.

1. Directly connect to the router whenever possible.

Once you're ready to maximize the quality of your streaming, an straightforward step is connecting immediately whenever you can. This means going directly to your modem or router to your computer with an Ethernet cable. If you're working on an online camera or digital camera make sure you connect your device to your computer instead of relying on Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. In general, it's preferable to connect physically-connected devices over wireless connections. This helps you get the most out of your streams.

2. Shut down and eliminate any other source

As with the previous advice, when you're first starting out it's perfectly fine to try out streaming under your typical office conditions. One other trick you may want to try though is to shut down and eliminate any other devices that could be occupying your connectivity and the speed of your internet. This includes all other connected Wi-Fi devices, laptops, and any and all background programs that might be automatically synced and using up bandwidth.

3. Increase your upload speed as well as bandwidth

No matter where you've chosen to stream from, make sure to test your speed on the internet as well as bandwidth limitations set by your Internet service provider (ISP). If you intend to live stream on a regular basis, consider upgrading your plan or finding an ISP which can offer you an increase in upload speed and bandwidth.

4. Install an appropriate buffer

Set a buffer to make sure you're working in a safe rate. This will help reduce speed fluctuations across your broadcast. One good rule of thumb is to keep your upload rate at 30% higher than your bitrate speed for a smooth and issue free broadcast.

5. Test extensively

In case you're unsure, test it out.

The test of your live stream can aid in finding that perfect place that is able to maximize elements such as resolution, frame rate and bitrate, without having an audience in attendance. Be sure to conduct numerous dress rehearsals and practice runs to make sure everything is to your liking.

Wrap up: start your live stream today

Live streaming can be quite simple. If you take the time to set up the appropriate equipment it allows you to focus on the larger view. It is also about focusing on your live streaming content as well as perfecting your aesthetic and style prior to going live.

Once you've mastered the basics, you're ready to get serious and start broadcasting your content via quality, professional videos. If you're in need of some refreshers, read our tricks and tips to get the components of your stream in order.