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How to live stream Blog

Aug 11, 2022

The initial step is the toughest. Where do you begin? There are plenty of ways to hit the ground running. This article will go over the ins and outs of how to go live for the first time.

When you're done reading this post, you'll know how to live stream, the best equipment for every budget, and various live streaming platforms that will help you locate the best platform for the best videos.

In this article

How to get started by streaming live

Before jumping into a streaming setup first, we need to look at streaming content.

There are plenty of highly producedmulti-cam shows around the world, however, it does not mean that everyone has to shell out a lot of money for a start. Be aware that the equipment you use and setting can only take you so far; it's all about your content.

Remember your last video chat with your friends and family. Maybe you were catching up or sharing an impromptu food. Similar to your previous video chat Live streaming serves one purpose in common: connect in an authentic and conversational way.

Live stream live for the first time

This is a list of the items you'll need to have prior to starting live streaming:

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

Live streaming terms

Before we move on There are a handful of terms you'll need to be aware of. These are just the tip of the iceberg to help you dive into streaming lingo at first.

  • Bitrate: the rate of data that is transferred from point A to point B. It's typically measured by kilobytes/second but can differ according to a range of variables, such as: the network connection between the source and receiver, video compression, resolution and much more.
  • Compression within the case of live streaming, compression increases processing efficiency through reducing the dimension of the video stream. The industry standard for this is H.264 (better known as MPEG-4). This compression is used for our live and uploaded videos.
  • Transcoding or encoding in the moment that video first is recorded, it's in a wide variety of formats depending on your device. Coding -- also referred to as transcoding is the process of changing the raw, analog, or broadcast video files to digital video files.
  • Frames: the series of still photos that make up your video. Think of these like the pages of a book. The lower the motion per frame and the more frames per second the smoother the video. They're determined in terms of frames per second (FPS) also known as the number of frames that are displayed per second in video.
  • Redundancy A variety of backup options during a live stream. A fully redundant live set includes backup camera feeds, backup data source streams coming out of the mixer and backup RTMP streams, backup signal types, backup encoders on every master feed, backup streams or profiles to playback, as well as backup CDNs for each stream is being served from.
  • Switcher is also called an "video mixer" or "vision mixer" switchers are a device that allows you to choose from a range of different sources. In certain situations, switchers are used to composit (mixing) video sources together for creating specific effects.

1. Pick your audio and camera

Let's look into the top options for stream setups for beginners. If you want to stream with no stress, then you could utilize a smartphone, or a built-in webcam to start.

Whatever video and audio setup you decide to use, ensure your presentation looks stunning adhering to the following guidelines:

  • Choose a modern, clean background
  • Make sure you speaker/presenter is placed on the middle of the frame.
  • Install lights, or attempt to make use of natural light your face, not behind you
  • Choose a quiet spot and eliminate background noises
  • Keep things as static as possible and limit movement

If you want to increase the image quality and sound quality to professional standards There are some excellent options to think about to improve your camera as well as lighting and audio setup.

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

Intermediate-level recommendations:
Camera: Canon XA15 ($1,800)
Microphone Rode ProCaster ($229)
Lights: The Neewer ring lights ($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. Pick a switcher and an encoder

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

Software encoders

An encoder is critical for the video distribution. It's the device that processes and converts video files into a format more compatible with different platforms, such as Facebook, Youtube, Twitch, etc, so your viewers are able to view your video.


While some cameras have built-in encoders, others will require you use a hardware encoder (more on that in the next section) or use a software encoder.

What is an encoder?

An encoder is a device capable of processing and transforming the video content into a format compatible with different platforms like , Facebook, Youtube, Twitch, etc.

If we are looking at what to look for in an software encoder, we focus on three important aspects.

  • Ease-of-use
  • Accessibility
  • Evergreen software

These three factors will ensure you get an encoder that is easy to use with the necessary technical support.

Hardware encoders

Hardware encoders should be used when pushing high quality video, audio, and multiple camera and video sources into your stream.

And for those seeking out the best equipment recommendations for your hardware encoding kit We've got it covered. Here are some basic items will be required to use one (or multiple) Studio HD550 switcher to be your primary encoder.

Switchers

The function of a switcher is exactly as it's name implies. It lets producers switch between audio and video sources. It is commonly utilized for multi-camera configurations, so you can switch between shots in the course of your broadcast.

Similar to encoders, there are various options available for switching software and hardware. For those who are just starting out, We recommend choosing a program which incorporates all the features that you'd need for both the encoding as well as switching.

Livestream Studio, which is  its native encoder/switcher software, gives users the power of a live production control room for telling compelling stories.

3. Check your internet bandwidth for live streaming

Now, we can address the issue that is looming the issue of connectivity.

However elegant or professional your setup is, your live stream is only depending on your internet connection.

Before we go over how you can get the highest upload speed for your streaming Two terms to be aware of.

The first term is bitrate. It is the speed at which your data will upload via your encoder, and then out to the various streaming platforms or services you've picked. The more the bitrate the higher the stream quality. But, high bitrates can also indicate large size of data, which can slow down stream.

It is important to strike the right balance for your bitrate and your connection. The best way to achieve this is by considering aspects such as your frame rate or resolution.

What's your framerate and resolution for live streaming?

The frame rate of your video is the number of images that you transmit and shown per second that you see on your screen. If live streaming is broadcast to live audiences online, 30 frames each second (FPS) is accepted as the standard actually, most streams choose to broadcast in 60 frames per second for more detail for sports or video games.

The resolution of your video is a reflection of the size of the frame that you use for the video. Just because everyone wants 4K resolution for their televisions, cameras and content doesn't mean you should use it for streaming live. If you don't have the capacity for the huge size of files, think about more practical resolutions like 1080p or 720p that are much more manageable for streaming, and keep your bitrate reasonable.

4. Select the best platform to live streaming

After you've taken a look at all the different aspects of live streaming from cameras to encoders to bitrates, you're ready to pick your preferred live streaming provider.

Before you begin start, ensure that everything is synced and your encoder is properly connected with the stream number (or RTMP URL or stream address) on each platform. Many of these solutions will outline all the procedures you'll have to take before broadcasting or simulcasting multiple platforms.

  • Live With Premium and Enterprise, streamers can access a variety of tools to stream live the streaming of their videos and other events. Alongside live streaming Premium comes with all of the video hosting and collaboration tools to support the entire process.
  • YouTube Live: YouTube's live streaming service is a standard and free service for cheap streaming.
  • Facebook Live: Facebook Live might be best for those looking to add live streaming videos to their brand's Facebook page.
  • Twitch: one of the largest name in the world of video game live streaming. Twitch is among the most popular platforms for its community and niche styles of video content.
  • Mixer Live streaming from Microsoft's platform attracts gamers who stream video games and competes with Twitch's fans.
  • LinkedIn Live The platform was recently introduced, LinkedIn now offers its own live streaming platform tailored specifically for networking and business group.

The best platform should compliment the kind of content you plan to stream, in addition to the viewers you want to engage.

For small entrepreneurs, influencers and brand owners, marketers and other brands who are looking into how to setup a live stream to the first time, offers robust support and features to help you get started in the right direction.

Boost your live streaming skills

Are you interested in starting your own Live streaming company? Sign up to the Experts community to access detailed training on the equipment, software, and tools that you require to create a professional live streaming business.

5 tips to optimize your bandwidth on the internet to stream live

Plan to test out your stream on your smartphone or webcam, as well as an external camera prior to your live date. If, for instance, you're used to video chat on zoom calls all day using your laptop from the sofa, you could expect your live stream to look about the same under those same circumstances.

1. Make sure to connect directly to the router when possible

When you're ready to improve the quality of your streaming, an straightforward step is connecting directly whenever possible. That means connecting directly to your modem or router connecting to your computer using an Ethernet cable. If you're working with a webcam or digital camera Connect to your PC instead of relying on wi-fi or Bluetooth. In general, it's preferable to connect physically-connected devices over wireless connections. This can help maximize the amount of streams you can stream.

2. Close and remove other sources

Similar to the advice above that you're starting out it's perfectly fine to experiment with streaming within the normal office or home circumstances. One other trick you may be interested in trying is to shut down and eliminate any other devices that could be occupying your connectivity and speeds. This is applicable to all Wi-Fi connected devices, computers and any and all background applications that could be automatically synced and taking up bandwidth.

3. Increase your upload speed as well as bandwidth

Whatever platform you choose to stream from, make sure to check internet speed and bandwidth caps outlined by your Internet service provider (ISP). If you intend to stream on a regular basis think about upgrading your subscription or selecting an ISP that can give you more upload speeds and bandwidth.

4. Create an appropriate buffer

Create a buffer that will make sure you're working at a safe bitrate. This can help minimize the speed fluctuation during your stream. One good rule of thumb is to maintain your upload speed at least 30% higher than the bitrate speed in order to ensure a seamless and error-free broadcast.

5. Test extensively

If you are unsure, try it out.

Testing your live stream will help you find that sweet place that is able to maximize elements such as frame rate, resolution and bitrate while not having an audience in attendance. Make sure you conduct many dress rehearsals or rehearsal run to be sure that all is in order.

Wrap up: start your live stream today

Live streaming can be quite simple. When you invest the time and effort to acquire the proper equipment in place it allows you to focus on the bigger view. This includes honing in on your live streaming content and enhancing your personal style and sensibilities before going live.

After you've learned the fundamentals, it's time to go for it and broadcast your content with reliable, professional video. If you need a refresh, check out our tips and tricks to get the components of your broadcast in place.