outsourceeasilycom Blog

Live streaming Blog

Aug 11, 2022

The initial step is the hardest. How do you start? The good news is that there are ways to start off on the right foot. In this article, we'll go through the ins and outs of what you need to go live the first time.

By the end of this piece, you'll be able to understand the best ways to live stream, the best equipment for every budget, and the different live streaming platforms so you can find the best platform for your awesome videos.

In this article

Beginning by streaming live

Before jumping into streaming begin with the content.

There are plenty of highly produced, multi-cam broadcasts in the world, but it doesn't mean everyone needs to spend a fortune for a start. Be aware that the equipment you use and set-up can only take you so far -- it's all about your content.

Take a moment to think about your most recent video chat with your friends and family. Perhaps you had a catch-up or sharing a dinner. Like your previous video conference, live streaming has one purpose in common: be authentically connected in a engaging manner.

How to live stream for the first time?

Here's a checklist of equipment you'll need prior to starting live streaming:

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

Terms of Live streaming

Before we get to the next step, there are few terms that you should know. These are just the tip of the iceberg to help you dive into streaming language to the first time.

  • Bitrate The rate of data that is transferred from one point to B. It's typically measured in Kilobytes per Second but can differ based on a variety of factors, including: connectivity between the receiver and source network as well as video compression, resolution and much more.
  • Compression within the context of live streaming Compression improves the efficiency of processing by decreasing the overall dimension of the video stream. The industry standard for this is H.264 (better known as MPEG-4). This compression is used for both live and uploaded videos.
  • Transcoding or encoding When video is first recorded, it is in a wide variety of formats, based on your device. The process of encoding, also known as transcoding -- is the process of turning raw, analog, or broadcast video file formats to the digital format.
  • Frames: the series of still images that compose your video. Consider them as pages in a flip book. The less motion per frame, as well as the higher number of frames per second, smoother the video. The frames are determined in terms of frames per second (FPS), aka the amount of frames shown in a second video.
  • Redundancy The HTML0 Redundancy feature includes a range of backup options when streaming live. The fully redundant live stream includes backup camera feeds stream of backup data emanating from the mixer, backup RTMP streams and backup signal types. backup encoders that are specific to every master feed and backup streams, profiles for playback and backup CDNs which every set of streams is receiving service from.
  • Switcher is also called a "video mixer" or "vision mixer" switchers are a device for selecting between several different video sources. In certain situations, switchers are also used for compositing (mixing) video sources together for creating specific effects.

1. Pick your audio and camera

We'll look at some of the top options for your streaming setup for beginners. If you're looking to stream without the hassle, you can always make use of a smartphone or integrated webcams to begin.

Whatever video and audio setup you choose, make sure your broadcast looks great by applying the tips below:

  • Use a clean, interesting background
  • You must ensure that the speaker/presenter is located in the center of the frame.
  • Install lights, or attempt to use natural light in the front of you, and not behind .
  • Find a quiet place and remove background noises
  • Keep things as static as possible and limit movement

If you want to increase the image quality and sound quality to a professional standard We've got some fantastic ideas you can explore 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)
Lighting Neewer's ring light kits ($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

Once you have your video and audio sources locked in, you'll need to examine switchers and encoders.

Software encoders

An encoder is critical for the video distribution. It's the tool that process and converts the video's data into a format more compatible with various platforms, such as Facebook, Youtube, Twitch, etc, so your viewers can view your videos.


Some cameras are equipped with encoders, others will require you use a hardware encoder (more on this in the next section) or use a software encoder.

What exactly is an encoder?

A encoder is a piece of equipment that can process and transform the video content into a format that is compatible with various platforms such as , Facebook, Youtube, Twitch, etc.

If we are looking at how to choose an encoder software it is important to consider three key factors.

  • Ease-of-use
  • Accessibility
  • Evergreen software

Three factors can ensure you get an encoder that is user-friendly and comes with technical assistance.

Hardware encoders

Hardware encoders are best used to push high-quality video as well as audio and multiple camera and video sources to your streaming.

If you're searching for the perfect gear recommendations for your hardware encoding kit we've got you got you covered. Below are a few basic equipment you'll need centered around one (or more) Studio HD550 switcher as your workhorse encoder.

Switchers

A switcher does exactly what the name suggests. It allows the producer to toggle between video and audio sources. It is commonly utilized for multi-camera setups so that it is possible to switch between different shots during your stream.

Similar to encoders, you do have different options for both switches that are 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 allows users to harness the power of live control room that can tell captivating stories.

3. Check your internet bandwidth for live streaming

We can now address the elephant in the room the issue of connectivity.

Whatever nice or professional the setup is, your live stream is only dependent on the quality of your connection.

Before we discuss how to get the best upload speed for your stream There are two words you should know.

The initial term you'll hear is called bitrate. This refers to the rate at which the data you upload will go via your encoder, and then out to the various streaming platforms or services you've picked. Generally speaking, the higher the bitrate the higher the streaming quality. But, high bitrates can also refer to large files, that can cause a slowdown in a stream.

It is important to strike an appropriate balance between your bitrate and your connection. One way to do this is by considering aspects like your frame rate and resolution.

What's your framerate and resolution to stream live?

The frame rate of your video is the amount of pictures that are transmitted and displayed in a second on screen. When live streaming to online audiences 30 frames each second (FPS) becomes standard and actually, some streams prefer to stream in 60 frames per second in order to get greater clarity for sporting events or video games.

Your resolution is the measurement of the frame of the video. While everyone is looking for 4K videos on their TVs, cameras and other media doesn't mean that it's the best option to stream live. Unless you have the capacities to handle the massive size of files, think about the more sensible resolutions, like 1080p or 720p that are more manageable to streaming and keeping your rate of bitrate in a sensible range.

4. Select the best platform to live streaming

Once you've considered all aspects of live streaming from cameras to encoders , to bitrates, you're now ready to pick your preferred live streaming service.

In order to begin the process it is important to ensure everything is synced and your encoder is properly connected to streams number (or RTMP URL or stream address) for every platform. Many of these solutions provide the complete procedures you'll have to take before broadcasting or simulcasting to different platforms.

  • Live With Premium and Enterprise versions, users are able to use a range of live streaming software for the streaming of their videos and other events. Apart from live streaming Premium includes all the video hosting and collaboration tools to support your workflow in general.
  • YouTube Live: YouTube's live streaming service is a standard, free-to-use offering for affordable streaming.
  • Facebook Live: Facebook Live might be best for anyone looking to incorporate live streaming videos to their company's Facebook page.
  • Twitch: one of the largest names in video game live streaming. Twitch is one of the top platforms due to its communities and unique styles of media.
  • Mixer Microsoft's live streaming platform attracts gamers who stream video games and competes with Twitch's audience.
  • LinkedIn Live The platform was recently introduced, LinkedIn now offers its own live streaming platform that has been designed specifically for networking and business communities.

The best platform should compliment the type of video content you intend to stream as well the audience you'd like to connect with.

For smaller entrepreneurs, influencers and marketing, and companies that want to set up streaming live in the first place it offers a robust customer support service and tools to help start off with the right way.

Boost your live streaming skills

Do you want to start a live streaming enterprise? Get involved in the Experts community for detailed training on the equipment, software, and tools you need to build the perfect live streaming business.

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

You should test your stream on your smartphone or webcam, as well as an external camera prior to your live date. For example, if you're used to video chatting on zoom calls all day using your laptop from the couch, you might expect the live stream you're streaming to appear about the same under those similar circumstances.

1. Directly connect to the router when possible

Once you're ready to maximize your streaming quality, the first straightforward step is connecting direct whenever it is possible. It's about connecting directly from your router or modem to your PC using an ethernet cable. If you're using digital cameras or a webcam, connect to your computer instead of relying on WiFi or Bluetooth. It is generally recommended to connect physically-connected devices over wireless connections. This will help you maximize the amount of streams you can stream.

2. Shut down and eliminate any other source

As with the previous advice, when you're first getting started, it's perfectly acceptable to try out streaming under the normal office or home conditions. Another trick that you might want to try though is to close and remove the other sources that may have a negative impact on your connectivity or speeds. That includes other Wi-Fi enabled devices, computer and background programs that might be automatically synced and using up bandwidth.

3. Maximize your upload speed and bandwidth

Whichever platform you decide to use to stream, remember to test your speed on the internet as well as bandwidth limitations set by your Internet service provider (ISP). If you're planning to stream regularly, consider upgrading your plan or selecting an ISP that can give you more upload speeds and bandwidth.

4. Install the buffer

Set a buffer to ensure you're operating at a secure bitrate. This will help reduce speed fluctuations throughout your stream. The best guideline is to ensure that your upload speed at least about 30 percent more than your bitrate rate for a smooth and error-free broadcast.

5. Test extensively

In case you're unsure, test it out.

Test your live stream to help you find that sweet location that can maximize the elements of resolution, frame rate , and bitrate, without being able to have an audience. Be sure to conduct many dress rehearsals or rehearsal tests to ensure that everything is to your liking.

Wrap up: start your live stream today

Live streaming can be quite easy. When you invest the time and effort to set up the appropriate equipment up front it allows you to focus on the big image. This includes honing in on your live streaming video and enhancing your personal style and sensibilities before going live.

Now that you've covered the basics, you're ready to take the plunge and broadcast your content with reliable, professional video. If you're in need of an update, take a look at our suggestions and tricks on how to make sure the parts of your stream in order.