With over 57% of marketers live streaming their content, it’s not hard to see why brands are jumping into the streaming business. But for plenty of brands and content creators, learning how to live stream can be a hurdle. There’s no shame in admitting the technical side of live streaming can be, well, pretty technical to understand for the majority of us. Don’t lose hope! In this guide, we’ll unpack all the complicated business of streaming. We’ll walk through how to set up a live stream, what gear to consider, and how to get it set up. We’ll also tackle how to find the right streaming platform and share tips for a stable internet connection when live streaming. There’s a lot of ground to cover, so let’s jump into it.
Ultimately, live streaming your content boils down to five steps:
In other words, your live streaming process includes CED or capturing audio and video content, encoding it, and distributing it using a live streaming platform. You probably noticed there’s lots of gear and live streaming software involved. We’ll address those first, then share the details on how to set everything up.
Building a streaming setup for beginners is pretty simple. You’ll need a camera, mic or microphone, lighting, and a stable internet connection. You’ll also need to get your (digital) hands on some live streaming software. More on that in a bit. For now, let’s get started with the live streaming equipment you’ll need.
If you’re only getting started with testing the live streaming waters, our Live Production Lead at Vimeo, Tom Gott, suggests you’ll only need a single quality camera. In other words, a webcam will do the job. But if you’re looking to explore other camera choices, there are plenty of options for every budget. We have great options if you’re aiming to go low-cost into live streaming before upgrading your gear. Beginner level video sources:
Intermediate level video sources: If you do have some budget set aside for investing in a camera, say up to $2000, you can level up your live stream’s game by investing in any of the following:
Can you use any camera to live stream? A webcam, point and shoot, camcorder —all will work for live streaming as long as the camera you use is able to capture a minimum of 720p at 24fps footage.
Even if the video quality of your live stream is up to par, your audience will check out if the audio quality is poor. So don’t overlook your live stream’s audio quality. That’s why Gott advises, “Don’t rely on the built-in microphone on your camera, invest in a proper one.” If you’re just starting to explore audio equipment options, we’ve got a great guide on how to find the perfect mic for your videos. Here are the options at a glance. Beginner level audio sources:
Intermediate level audio sources:
Not planning to invest in an audio source? Your phone can help capture sound. Well, at least temporarily as you get to grips with the live streaming business.
The third piece of live streaming equipment that you may need is a capture card. A capture card is an intermediary device that transfers video from its source to your main live streaming setup. But hang on: why do you need a capture card? So that it can show your computer what your camera is seeing. To use a capture card, your camera needs an HDMI port/output to attach the HDMI cable. This will transfer the video feed to your computer. And, when do you need to add a capture card to your live stream setup?
✔ You need a capture card when you’re using a software encoder (more on this below).
❌ You don’t need a capture card when you’re using a hardware encoder as it usually comes with an internal capture card. You also don’t need it when you’re using a USB camera or microphone that you can directly plug into your computer.
For now, know that if you are planning to use a capture card, you’ll need to pick between a USB interface capture card or one with a PCI-e interface. Here are some of our capture card recommendations:
Whatever you select, be sure to check that the capture card is compatible with your streaming platform. For instance, there are a handful of capture cards supported by Vimeo.
Okay so you now have most of the tech list that partly answers how to live stream. But there’s another essential aspect that you can’t skip — lighting for streaming. A well lit stream can help your live video look more professional and help you engage your audience. Think about it: you don’t want your viewers to cringe at how poorly lit your live streaming setup is and you certainly don’t want the overhead lights in your office to cast harsh shadows on your speakers or presenters. The good news? You can perfect the lighting set up with these two sources. Lighting for entry level streamers:
Sunlight is your best friend and a free source for lighting your streaming space. Test your video to find the right balance of natural light. Too much sunlight can mask the details of your speaker’s face and too little of it will obscure their features. Here are a few tips for creating a flattering look with natural lighting:
Experiment with opening and closing the window shades to find the right setting and the perfect balance between the natural and artificial lights in your room. Want to make the most of the sunlight and shoot outdoors? Dive into this guide to get a rundown of how to perfect outdoor lighting. Another option that’s become popular among live streamers is ring light. These are budget-friendly lighting sources for beginner-level streaming that don’t pose a fire hazard or heat the room, making them great to use. Their circular design also means ring lights help remove shadows from your face. Lighting for intermediate level:
Have some money to spend? Get a three-point light kit to polish up your lighting. These kits include three lights: a main/key light, fill light, and a backlight that bring warmth, depth, and quality to your stream. You can also pair lights from this kit with the overhead lights in your office to light up the scene professionally. How? By removing the main light since overhead lights do its job instead.
Using a three-point light kit, position the main light across the subject to illuminate. Next, position the fill light across the other end of the subject to balance the light from the main light and position the third, backlight behind the subject to separate them from the background. See where each light goes in this short video.
As for the bits and bobs for the perfect setup, here’s a quick list:
Let’s talk about encoders. To share your stream with the world, you’ll need an encoder. An encoder is a device that converts video files from one format to another. Put another way, it takes the raw feed from a camera and transfers it into viewable content in your main live streaming station. There are two types of encoders at your disposal: hardware encoders and software encoders. Here’s a quick rundown of hardware encoders and software encoders.
Because hardware encoders free up your computer for focusing on other tasks, these are great for more professional broadcasts and live streaming gamers. This way, the PC can focus on the game while the encoder works in the background. As for which hardware encoder to buy, read on to find out budget-friendly options below. Beginner-level hardware encoders:
Intermediate level:
The good thing about software encoders is that they work on their own, not taking up much of your attention. Here are a few software encoder options:
Last on this list of live streaming equipment is a switcher. Like an encoder, you may or may not need it. It all comes down to your requirements. Essentially, a switcher helps switch between different video and audio sources, production elements, and control graphics. So if you’re using two or more cameras for live streaming or want to show graphics/presentations between your live stream, you’ll need a switcher to capture the additional feeds for you. If you’re a Vimeo Enterprise user (or plan to be one soon!) you’ll get Livestream Studio with your package. Not only does it handle a software encoder’s job, but it also plays the switcher’s role.
With live streaming equipment out of the way, let’s talk about the distribution side of how to live stream. Live streaming platforms are video hosting services that let you broadcast video content. Depending on the platform you choose, you can stream on multiple channels at once to reach a wider audience. There’s no one answer to which streaming platform is right for you as the correct answer is: it depends on your requirements. For live streamers who are using video for internal communications (like town halls or employee trainings) or for virtual events, there are a few key features to keep in mind.
There are a lot of places for your audience to view your live stream. Here are a few main destinations where you may want to broadcast your next live event:
What if your audience is spread across multiple channels? You don’t have to pick just one place to stream! Simulcasting allows you to stream to multiple destinations at once.
At the start of this guide, we gave you a quick overview of how to live stream. Now that you’re familiar with the gear needed for a streaming setup for beginners, let’s dive into the details of how to set up a live stream.
1.
This involves physically connecting the audio and video sources to your main live streaming setup (the PC or laptop). Connect these sources to your hardware encoder to feed the content into your livestream station or use a capture card if you have a software encoder.
2.
If you’re using an external encoder, you’ll need to configure the device’s setting using an app or Web UI. For a software encoder, you’ll work internally.
You can leave the configuration setting to default as the software automatically adjusts to the streaming platform.
Ask you configure your encoder, keep these three points in mind:
With the audio and video set up with your livestream station, you’re now left with linking in your streaming platform into the picture.
Use the streaming key/name and streaming URL that your live streaming platform gives you and enter it into the encoder to complete your live streaming setup.
Doing so allows the streaming platform to identify your encoder. On the other hand, the encoder is able to understand where to send the audio and visual details.
4.
Your internet connection is the elephant in the room when it comes to streaming. Unreliable internet connection equals slow streaming – something that can make you lose viewers fast.
To prevent lost views, start test your internet speed using a site like Speedtest.net. Here are a few other tips to make sure your internet connection is stable.
5 important ideas to consider with upload speeds and streaming
What is upload speed?
Your upload speed is the speed at which your ISP lets you share content on the internet. It’s measured in millions of bits — or megabits — per second and it matters because a slow upload speed would mean spotty livestreams.
While there’s no answer to the perfect upload speed for a live stream, we have a few benchmarks to keep in mind:
Just remember, the higher your video quality is, the more upload speed you’ll need.
Your upload speed can also be impacted by four things.
Upload rate
This is the speed at which your internet can upload content. The higher it is, the better your upload speed.
Your internet service provider’s (ISP) bandwidth
To recap, bandwidth is the capacity of your internet to upload or download data. The larger the video content, the greater bandwidth required.
The content quality
High-quality and fast moving visuals can impact your upload speed.
Your streaming platform
Every platform has its recommendation. Here just few platform-specific suggestions to give you an idea:
With everything in place, click start streaming in your encoder and get the show running! Remember, it’s okay to be nervous with your first time going live. Add a few practice runs before the live data and you’ll be good to go.
With enough planning and a few live streaming sessions under your belt, you’ll start enjoying the process in no time.
Now that it’s clear how to live stream, here’s hoping you’re ready to go all in and share your story live. Want to master live streaming without having to worry about the technical glitches? Discover how to launch a successful live stream with Vimeo Enterprise.
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If you’re looking for a headphone-microphone combo, there’s the ATH-M50xSTS StreamSet, Audio-Technica’s new headset built specifically for streamers. It essentially adds a cardioid condenser mic to the ATH-M50x, and it comes in XLR and USB models.
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