Live streaming is a fun way to connect with your audience and it allows real-time communication. However, live streaming also comes with more advanced technology needs than shooting high-definition (HD) video and uploading it online. Before you dive into live streaming, make sure you are prepared for the experience.

Buy A High Quality Camera

Although you can achieve decent quality video with some mobile devices, if you are serious about live streaming, you need regular access to a higher quality camera. DSLR cameras are not the only option for high quality video streaming, but they give you the most versatility if your camera will serve multiple functions. You should choose a camera that is able to shoot HD video at 1080p or higher. Ultra-HD (4K) is an increasingly popular resolution for video.

Many DSLR cameras have a built-in microphone, but you want to choose a model that will allow you to connect an external microphone. Built-in microphones may not give you the audio quality you need. Additionally, you will want the flexibility to use different microphones for different settings. For example, you might want a wireless lapel microphone if you are the only speaker. However, a boom microphone might be more appropriate if you are doing an in-person interview for your audience.

Unlike a point-and-shoot camera or mobile device, a DSLR camera will also give you the opportunity to use lenses. Many DSLR cameras are available as a kit, which will come with the camera body, kit lens, and sometimes other accessories. The kit lens is usually sufficient for shooting live video, but you may want the flexibility of using additional lenses. Some DSLR cameras have a flip-out screen, which helps to ensure you are in frame and in focus throughout your live streaming. If you will connect your computer to the camera, a flip-out screen is not always necessary since your computer can act as an external screen on some camera models.

Have A Good Internet Connection

You need to carefully consider your Internet connection if you are serious about live streaming. Multiple factors will impact your live streaming capabilities, one of which is the speed of your internet. Many Internet packages advertise high speeds, but this is not the complete picture. The speed advertised is often the download speed, which is not most important when you want to live stream. Make sure you know the upload speed on the Internet package you choose. You will likely need upload speeds of at least 10Mbps to provide your audience with smooth HD video.

Of course, the upload speeds you need will change depending on the needs of your household. Since Internet providers cannot guarantee a specific speed, it is better to choose a higher tier package. Your download speeds, which are usually higher than your upload speeds, matter more if you will interact with your audience during live streams. If people will join the live stream via video or by commenting, you want to ensure your download speeds can keep up to prevent a lag in the conversation or buffering of video. Talk to your Internet service provider to find out what package you need from them.

Consider Your Computer

Your computer can be a hindrance if it does not have advanced features. A good graphics card will reduce the likelihood of lag when your live stream contains other participants via video. Try to choose a dedicated graphics card with more video memory, at least 512MB. Your processor speeds and installed memory will also influence your live streaming experience. There is no hard rule for choosing a processor. However, you will achieve better performance with a newer processor, especially if you need to run several programs at once during live streaming. For memory, it is best to install the maximum amount of memory your operating system can read.

Live streaming is a popular method of interacting with an online audience. Before you start live streaming, you need to make sure you have the right equipment to give your audience the best possible experience.

Share