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How to Start Streaming?
Live Streaming is sending video data over the internet in real-time to different platforms where people can watch you live.
Like TV news, where news reporters broadcast live, and you see them on your TV. The same goes with live streaming, except everything is happening in front of your computers or mobile phones.
A bit of history, live streaming dates back to 1993. It’s a bit hard to believe, but yes, it was 27 years ago.
It was a group of engineers who tried to test and broadcast an event over the internet, and they were successful, making that the first-ever live stream in history, but it was in 2008 when YouTube launched its first-ever live stream event and from then on had played a major role in the world of live streaming.
Now there are many platforms and software that you can use to go live.
It’s like Vlogging, except there are no edits and prerecorded stuff. Just live and uncensored. If you’re wondering how they do it, and how you can go live, then read on.
THINGS YOU’LL NEED:
1. Laptop / PC
Most laptops and computers these days are already good. However, it would still depend if you’re planning to be a gaming streamer, I don’t think a normal computer with basic specs will exactly meet your needs.
Anyway, for a not-so-hardcore live streaming setup, you must find at least a device with 8GB RAM and an i7 processor. You’ll also need USB ports. The more, the better.
A laptop on its own is already a setup. It has a mic, it has a camera, and it can transmit your data. Those are the basic things you’ll need. That’s it. You’re good to go. However, if you want your feed to look and sound more professional, read items 2, 3 & 4.
2. Webcam
As we have been saying in our posts, built-in cameras on our laptops and phones are not good. If you’ve ever seen a professional live stream, you’ll notice that the video quality is good. It’s clear, bright, and visually good to watch. For you to have that video feedback, you’ll need to get a separate camera.
Some people use DSLR cameras and connect them to their computers. If you have one, use it. However, you’ll need a Capture Card for your setup. But an easier and cheaper way is to get a good webcam.
3. Microphone
Just like built-in cameras, built-in microphones are NOT ideal for professional use. Good and clear audio is just as important as good and clear video quality. If they can see you and your screen but can’t hear you, it won’t be good. Video and Audio always go hand in hand.
4. Lights
When live streaming, one of the most overlooked elements is lights. A good lighting setup can do so much for your video. It makes your video look more professional.
If you’re conducting a conference or an online class, this will make your viewers more engaged, and if you’re streaming publicly, this can also attract a larger audience.
One of the famous and budget-friendly light setups is ring lights. These are okay. But a problem with it is it casts a circular light on your eyes. It’s bad if you’re wearing glasses. It could be distracting. If you want to add lights, our recommendation will be the Elgato Key Light.
5. Software
This is something that you will need to download. This will be your encoder.
What an encoder does is it takes all your video input and converts it into a format compatible with different platforms.
It’s like a video editing tool, but it does the work in real time. You can add animated titles, intros, chroma-key, and live switching. You can add layers to your social media comments on your live feed, etc. Many stuff you can tinker with this software. Some of the most used software are:
- OBS Studio
- VMix
- StreamYard
- BeLive
- Wirecast Studio
6. Streaming Channels
The big question to live streamers is, where will you broadcast? You have many options, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, Twitch, Periscope, and LinkedIn, all of which are free. There are paid options as well.
In choosing your channel, you have to keep in mind who your audiences are. If it’s more on businessmen and professionals, you might want to opt for LinkedIn. If you’re a Gamer, Twitch is a good platform.
Can you simulcast? Definitely. If you want to broadcast on multiple platforms, say Facebook, YouTube, and Twitch at the same time. Some software that you could use are:
- Switchboard
- Cast
- Restream
You can set your live stream to either public or private. Also, do not forget that you need to have a good internet connection to be successful in this field.
Live Streaming is now being used for many different purposes. It can be used for conferences, webinars, online classes, online selling, gaming, and events.
It generates more engagements, comments, shares, and viewing time than normal videos.
It’s a great way to build your audiences. It’s a new form of reaching out to customers and building your brand. It could be a business for anyone who knows how to use it to their advantage.
See Also