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Aug 11, 2022

But taking that first step is always the toughest. How do you start? There are plenty of resources to help you hit the ground running. We'll break down details about how to go live your first time.

At the end of this article, you'll understand how you can live stream, the best equipment to suit every budget, as well as the different live streaming platforms to help you find the best platform for your awesome content.

In this article

Beginning with live streaming

Before we jump into the streaming system begin with the streaming content.

There are plenty of highly created, multi-cam live broadcasts around the world, however, it does not mean that everyone has to spend a fortune in order to get started. Be aware that the equipment you use and set-up can only take you so far -- the most important thing is your content.

Think of your last video chat with your friends and relatives. Maybe you were just catching up or having a casual food. Like your previous video conference the live stream has a simple purpose: to make connections in a genuine and engaging manner.

How do you live stream the first time

Here's a checklist of things you'll require before you start 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 you'll want to know. They're just the beginning of the iceberg that will aid you when you are attempting to learn streaming language to the first time.

  • Bitrate is the speed at which data is transported from one point to B. It's typically measured by kilobytes/second however, it can be different depending on various elements, including the network connection between the source and receiver as well as video compression, resolution and much more.
  • Compression: in the stream, compression increases processing efficiency by decreasing the overall size of the streaming video. The industry standard for this is H.264 (better called MPEG-4). It is used in our live and uploaded videos.
  • Encoding / transcoding in the moment that video first is recorded, it's in one of a variety of formats depending on your technology. Coding -- also referred to as transcoding -- refers to the process of converting raw, analog or broadcast video files into the digital format.
  • Frames: the series of still images that comprise the video. Imagine these as the pages of a flip book. The lower the motion per frame, and the greater number of frames per second, the more smooth the video. Frames are expressed in frames per second (FPS), aka the number of frames displayed in a second video.
  • Redundancy The HTML0 Redundancy feature includes a range of backup options when streaming live. A fully redundant live set includes backup camera feeds stream of backup data emanating from the mixer and backup RTMP streams, backup signal types, backup encoders that are specific to every master feed as well as backup streams and profiles for playback, and backup CDNs that each set of streams are serving from.
  • Switcher: also called an "video mixer" or "vision mixer," switchers are a device for selecting between several different video sources. In some cases, switchers are also used for compositing (mixing) video sources to produce specific effects.

1. Choose your camera and audio

Let's dig into some of the best options for stream setups for beginners. If you're looking streaming without hassle, you can always utilize a smartphone, or a built-in webcam to start.

No matter what audio and video configuration you choose, make sure your presentation looks stunning using the following tips:

  • Use a clean, interesting background
  • Make sure you speaker/presenter is placed in the center of the frame.
  • Install lights, or attempt to make use of natural light the front of you, and not behind .
  • Choose a quiet spot and remove background noises
  • Try to keep things static and minimize movements

If you want to increase the quality of your audio and image to professional standards, we've got some great ideas you can explore to improve your camera 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. Choose a switcher and encoder

After you've got your video and audio sources secure, you'll need be looking at switchers as well as encoders.

Software encoders

A encoder is essential to the distribution of video. This is the device that processes and converts video files into a format more compatible with other platforms like , Facebook, Youtube, Twitch for example, so that viewers can view your videos.


Although some cameras come with built-in encoders, you may need to use a physical encoder (more on that in the following section) or an encoder software.

What is an encoder?

An encoder is a gadget that can process and transform video data into a format suitable for various platforms, such as , Facebook, Youtube, Twitch for example.

If we are looking at how to choose an software encoder We focus on three key factors.

  • Ease-of-use
  • Accessibility
  • Evergreen software

The three elements listed above will guarantee you have an encoder that's user-friendly and comes with the necessary technical support.

Hardware encoders

Hardware encoders should be used to push high-quality video or audio as well as many video and camera sources to your streaming.

For those who are searching for the perfect suggestions for gear for your hardware encoding kit We've got it all covered. These are the essential items are required for one (or more) Studio HD550 switcher for your main encoder.

Switchers

The function of a switcher is exactly as the name suggests. It allows producers to switch between different sources of audio and video. They're commonly used for multi-camera setups so that it is possible to switch between different shots in the course of your broadcast.

As with encoders, there are different options for both switching software and hardware. However, for those first starting out, We recommend selecting a solution which incorporates all the features needed for both encoding and 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 one of the biggest issues: connectivity.

No matter how elegant or professional your setup -- your live stream can only be dependent on the quality of your connectivity.

Before we go over ways to achieve the most efficient upload speed for your streams There are two words you should know.

The most important term is bitrate. This refers to the rate at which your information will be uploaded through the encoder before being sent to various streaming services or platforms that you've picked. Generally speaking, the higher the bitrate the higher the stream quality. However, increased bitrates may indicate large size of data, that can cause a slowdown in the stream.

The trick is to find the ideal balance between your bitrate and your connection. The best way to achieve this is to consider factors such as frame rate and resolution.

What is your frame rate and resolution when streaming live?

Frame rate refers to the number of images that you transmit and displayed in a second on screen. Live streaming for live audiences online 30 frames every second (FPS) is accepted as the standard it is true that many streams opt to transmit in 60 frames per second to provide greater clarity for sporting events or video games.

Your resolution reflects the size of the frame that you use for the video. Just because everyone wants 4K resolution for their televisions, cameras as well as content, it doesn't mean it's the most effective option for live streaming. Unless you have the capacities to handle the massive file sizes, instead consider the more sensible resolutions, like 1080p and 720p, which can be more easily managed for streaming, and keep your bitrate reasonable.

4. Select the best platform to live streaming

When you've thought about every aspect of live streaming, from cameras, encoders and bitrates, it's time to choose your live streaming platform.

Before you begin it is important to ensure everything is synced and your encoder is properly connected with your stream key (or RTMP URL or stream address) for each platform. Many of these solutions explain the various procedures you'll have to take before broadcasting or simulcasting different platforms.

  • Live With Premium and Enterprise accounts, streamers have access to a suite of tools to stream live the streaming of their videos and other events. Apart from Live streaming capabilities Premium comes with all video hosting features and collaboration tools that will help the entire process.
  • YouTube Live: YouTube's live streaming service is a basic, free-to-use offering for affordable streaming.
  • Facebook Live: Facebook Live might be best for anyone looking to incorporate live streaming videos to their brand's Facebook page.
  • Twitch Twitch: One of the largest names in video game live streaming, Twitch is one of the most popular platforms for its community and niche styles of video content.
  • Mixer Microsoft's live streaming platform draws video game streamers and competes with Twitch's audience.
  • LinkedIn Live Recently launched, LinkedIn now offers its own live streaming platform tailored for the business and networking communities.

The best platform should compliment the kind of content you are planning to stream and also the target audience that you wish to reach.

Small businesses, influencers, marketers, and brands that want to create streaming live in the first place it offers a robust customer support service and features to help you begin with the right way.

Boost your live streaming skills

Do you want to start a live streaming enterprise? Sign up to the Experts community and gain access to detailed training on the equipment including software, tools, and equipment you need to build a professional live streaming business.

5 tips to optimize the bandwidth of your Internet connection for live streaming

Make sure you test the stream using your phone, web cam, or external camera before your go-live date. If, for instance, you're used to video chat on zoom calls all day from your laptop on the couch, you might expect your live stream to look similar under the identical circumstances.

1. Connect directly to the router when possible

Once you're ready to maximize your stream quality, one easy step is connecting immediately whenever you can. That means connecting 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 use physically connected devices that have wireless connectivity. This will help you maximize the amount of streams you can stream.

2. Remove and close any other source

Like the tips above that you're starting out it's perfectly fine to experiment with streaming within your typical office environment. One other trick you may be interested in trying is to shut down and eliminate the other sources that may have a negative impact on your connectivity or the speed of your internet. That includes other Wi-Fi connected devices, computers and any and all background programs that might be automatically synced, and consuming bandwidth.

3. Maximize your upload speed and bandwidth

Whichever platform you decide to use 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 stream regularly you should consider upgrading your service or finding an ISP that can give you a higher upload speed and bandwidth.

4. Set up an appropriate buffer

Make sure you have a buffer in place 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 ensure that the upload speed 30% higher than your bitrate rate to ensure a seamless and issue free broadcast.

5. Test extensively

In case you're unsure, test the idea.

Testing your live stream will aid in finding that perfect location that can maximize the elements of resolution, frame rate and bitrate without the risk of being able to have an audience. Also be sure to do several dress rehearsals or practice run to be sure that you are satisfied with the results.

Wrap up: start your live stream today

Live streaming can be surprisingly easy. When you invest the time and effort to get the right equipment and focusing on the bigger picture. This includes honing in on your live streaming content and perfecting your own aesthetic and style before going live.

Now that you've covered the basics, you're ready to go for it and broadcast your content with reliable, professional video. If you need a refresh, check out our suggestions and tricks on how to make sure the parts of your stream in order.