Step One: Equipment for your setup

1. Laptop or Desktop Computer

An expert quality laptop or computer is essential when creating live streams, as your equipment needs to be able to handle the requirements of live streaming. Your computer will need to have enough RAM to cope with posting live content and it’s important to have multiple USB ports to ensure all your gear can be cabled up and ready to use

2. Live Stream From a Smartphone

Along with laptops and computers, you can also opt to live streaming from your mobile device. This is becoming a popular option as it’s more accessible and portable. It’s a great way to capture events outside of the studio at any time and it's extremely easy to set up. You’ll just need a strong internet connection and a handful of apps on your phone and then you are ready to go!

3. Camera

If you are looking to upgrade your camera from your standard phone and tablet, then it should be top quality as well as portable. You could consider using a GoPro, DSLR or a simple webcam on your laptop when you are just starting up.

4. Microphone

A high-quality microphone is key to a great live stream, as exceptional audio is paramount! An ideal microphone for live streaming is a cardioid condenser microphone or a large-diaphragm dynamic broadcast microphone as these create exceptionally pure sound. A headphone and microphone set are also suitable for live streaming, such as a professional broadcast stereo headset.

5. Audio Mixer

Audio mixers are simple to use and are an essential piece of equipment when assembling your own live stream set up. The Audient iD4 audio interface is perfect if you have multiple microphones. You can adjust the volume of each individual mic, ensuring everyone's voices are at the same level, producing audio perfection. We’d also suggest the evo4 if you’re just starting to build your setup.

Step Two: Prep before you stream live

Make a script of things you want to say

Videos that are raw or ‘in the moment’ can be intriguing but it's also best when the audio flows and the content feels professionally produced. Having a draft script detailing areas you wish to cover can help improve the whole dynamic of your live stream.

Be mindful of your surroundings

As these videos are live and you can’t edit your backgrounds, you should make sure there’s nothing around you that might offend or distract your viewers. Keep it simple and allow the camera to only focus on you. Avoid noisy environments to ensure your content is crystal clear and uninterrupted.

Test your sound beforehand

Poor audio quality can result in a live stream that's extremely hard to watch. Record a sample video before going live to check your audio system is set up correctly and producing the sound quality you expect.

Step Three: Going live

The simplest and most popular way to create live content is through social media (such as Facebook or YouTube). If you are live streaming through Facebook, then you simply open the app, click ‘Live’ where you would normally update a status, add a description and click ‘Start Live Video’, - you will instantly be live streaming to everyone that follows you.

But how do you live stream on YouTube? When it comes to YouTube and creating live vlogs; simply open the app, click the video camera button at the top to post a video and click ‘Go Live.’ Set your live stream settings and click ‘Go Live’ again.

TikTok was the most downloaded app in 2020. So, how do you live stream on TikTok? How do you live stream on TikTok? Tap the ‘create’ icon to access the live screen. Swipe to ‘live’ in the navigation, pick an image, and write a title for your stream. Once you're ready, press ‘Go Live’ to start streaming.

Going live on Instagram is simple. Open the app on your smartphone, click on the + icon and scroll until you see the ‘Live’ option. You can then add a title and click on the white circle at the bottom of your screen to go live to your online followers!

Next up, Twitch. First things first, you need to have the app installed on your smartphone or laptop. Then, once you have created an account, press the profile image in the upper left-hand corner of the app and press ‘Go Live’ to start streaming your game. Step into the gaming community, meet fellow gamers and live stream your skills with Twitch.

Why is Live Streaming Rising in Popularity?

At a time when social contact has been limited, live streaming has become the go-to when communicating outside your home and allows you to connect with people in a different way. Live streaming provides an element of human connection that you can’t get from pre-recorded audio or video.

Live streaming has stemmed from reality TV and YouTube, where you can broadcast anything right in the moment. It's become extremely popular with content creators, opening up endless opportunities including the ability to gain global recognition.

Who Should Consider Live Streaming?

Live streaming provides a platform to create exciting live content without the need for significant edits. It’s the raw and transparent nature of live streaming that both content creators and audiences love.

There are many reasons why content creators such as vloggers and podcast professionals enjoy live streaming as well as creating pre-recorded, polished and edited content:

• Live streaming can increase customer engagement, allowing content creators to experience real-time engagement.
• Live content creation is often inexpensive compared to a sometimes costly editing process.
• The world of live streaming isn’t overcrowded yet, giving you the opportunity to stand out from the crowd.
• The content you create has an after-life, even once the live stream has ended.

Live streaming is a powerful way to deliver content, but you should always consider the pros and cons when deciding whether this type of content creation is most appropriate for you and your audience.