Today, technology has become an integral part of our everyday life. Live streaming has risen to be a prominent and effective marketing tool. Social media has made this function so easily accessible to everyone around the world, that it has become such a common thing to see from people of all ages. Whether you are streaming an important family moment, the sights around you or showing sneak peeks of your business. Live streaming has given us a deeper insight to the everyday lives of the people around us.
Tools Needed for a Live Stream
How exactly do you go about setting up a live stream? There are multiple ways, formats and outlets that make it very easy for you to do so. Before listing those outlets, let’s go through some of the equipment that you might need to give your stream the best quality. First off you will need either any type of smartphone, laptop or desktop computer device. If you have an account with any type of social media account such as Twitter, Facebook or Instagram then the Live Stream function should already be available to you. Allowing you to instantly stream directly through the camera on your smartphone.
For desktop or laptop devices the process to stream can be a bit different in some cases. The streaming options given to you by the above mentioned social media sites are the most optimal on mobile devices, not computers. But do not fret, you have other options for streaming through your computer at home. Websites like Twitch, YouTube and Mixer give account holders the option to stream directly from the home on their laptops or desktop devices. Simply sign up for an account on one these recommended sites and set up your stream.
Extra Equipment Needed
Now, for the computer devices you will need some extra equipment in order to stream. Here are a few things you might need:
- A stable internet connection (Basic but highly essential)
- Webcam (Either use your base camera built in to your computer or an external one. Consider the external option as it is more reliable.)
- Microphone (Enhance the sound quality of your stream. The Blue Yeti has great reviews on Amazon.)
- OBS (Streaming software for capturing computer screen and adding layouts and other customizable features for your stream. This is most optimal for organizing your stream and making it aesthetically pleasing.)
Benefits of Live Streaming
There are many benefits to live streaming. One of the biggest benefits for businesses is the exposure live streams have to offer. Live streams bring in more audiences and active audiences. Along with more exposure, businesses are able to better explain their brand. You make the one-on-one connections with audiences to answer questions and to explain the brand in depth.
Live streaming is an ever-growing aspect to social media. This does not seem to be going away any time soon therefore, businesses should take advantage of this tool as soon as possible. Branching out to live streaming will open up new audiences, make connections with current audiences, and broaden your overall brand.
Whether you prefer your handheld device or streaming from your computer, you will see that live streaming is a simple and easy process that you can have fun with. You do not need to buy all of the most expensive equipment to create an engaging live stream. With the bare essentials listed above you can enjoy a quality stream and begin to build your community.
