THE LIVESTREAM CHEAT SHEET
In addition to the standard video production shoots, our team at JV Studios pivoted into the live streaming industry to better serve our client’s needs in these changing times. As we started to learn the technology and how to produce a successful live stream, we felt called to share the secrets to our setup and process to inspire you to enter into this increasingly-needed service in modern video production.
THE SWITCHER
There are different types of equipment you can use to successfully achieve a live stream, but one of the most universal tools to live-streaming is utilizing a camera switcher. This piece of equipment will act as your command center for the entire production. Depending on the type of production, there are various switchers that will get the job done. However, just like a high-end camera can range in price and capability, switchers are just the same.
For just $895, we picked up the Blackmagic Atem Mini Pro ISO as our go-to switcher for our live streams, as we felt it would accomplish the vision of our productions and offer the best features. Depending on your budget, Blackmagic offers switchers starting from $295 to $3,000 and you can view the other models here.
INTERNET SPEED
Internet speed is crucial to your live stream. We recommend always using a dedicated internet connection if possible. This means you are connected via Ethernet to a network that is not being used by any other system or device.
If there is not a dedicated internet connection available, streaming can be achieved over a shared network, Wi-Fi, or 4G. However, using these methods increase the likelihood of an unsuccessful stream and is not recommended. Restream offered some recommendations for what makes a good upload speed for Facebook, Youtube, and Twitch.
Before broadcasting, you should confirm your upload speed. Doing so will allow you to properly select the quality at which you are able to stream. Before you plan the location to your live stream, you should always test your connection. You can utilize this website to help test your connection.
COMPUTER EQUIPMENT
Aside from the switcher, a laptop is another crucial component to the setup. Whereas the switcher is your command center, the computer essentially acts as your visual interface for all working components. If you plan on using the Blackmagic Atem Mini Series, you will want a computer that is compatible with the Atem Software Control application.
Depending on the space of the location for your shoot, we would recommend setting up an external monitor for viewing. Not only does this make seeing the stream easier, but allows the operator to truly be immersed in the production, seeing all elements, from cameras, to audio, pre-loaded graphics, and color correction. For our productions, we use the LG Ultrawide 21:9 HD Monitor because it acts as almost two screens in one. However, with monitors, as long as it has HDMI ports, any monitor should work.
WIRELESS VS. HARDLINED CONNECTIONS
In a perfect world, wireless connections will always be the most convenient way to go, but depending on the location of your shoot and distance from the command center, signal loss and interference is always something to consider. For our productions, we utilize both wireless transmission equipment and hard-lined connections.
For productions where we can be wireless, we use the Teradek 500 Bolt XT. We like this piece of equipment because the receiver has the ability to connect via HDMI or BNC up to 500ft. It’s important to know that, if using the Blackmagic Atem Mini series, HDMI is the only connection available. If we are shooting in a space experiencing signal loss or glitches, we go hard-lined into the HDMI ports for the most secure connection. In that case, picking up a couple 50ft-100ft HDMI Cords prepares you if need be.
MISCELLANEOUS ACCESSORIES
There are a lot of cords that can get in the way. Using one of these boxes can help declutter your workstation.
Even if you're using a MacBook Pro, chances are you need to use more than just the standard 4 USB-C hubs. This docking station allows you to have a variety of ports for the job.
Walkie Talkies are helpful during the production. The technician will be able to directly communicate with the production team during the shoot and direct from afar without interrupting the live production.
Like everything, there are multiple ways to successfully produce a live stream. Based on our experience, the elements above have been crucial components to our production. We hope these tips and tricks will help better your next live stream production!
