INTRODUCTION
If you are ready to start live streaming but are confused about how to move forward then this article is what you need. This deals with setting up a live stream studio and building a perfect home studio serving the purpose.
HOW TO SET UP A LIVE STREAM STUDIO?
Setting up a decent studio that will serve the purpose is not an overnight task. There are a few main steps that should be followed-
· Choosing the right design and space
One of the most important parts of a streaming studio is the room where it is set up in. A desk in the living room with natural lights or a broadcast from a spare room with LED lights can be used. Any space works as a studio as long as it supports the design and tech decisions. The room that is used while streaming should be paired properly with the design and it sets the tone for the streams. A theme that expressed the personality of the host while giving the same background each time helps to build a solid presence in the minds of the audience/viewers. Many ways can make the stream interesting.
1. A wall in the background is painted in an interesting accent color that stands out in the camera.
2. Some shelves can add a fun knick to the display
3. If the space does not support anything permanent then try to do removable wall art. Many stick-on art panels are available that peel off easily or add a 3D effect.
4. When you need a backdrop but cannot touch the walls then build a portable wall with some wooden panels then add wallpaper or paint to it.
5. A chroma key can also be used to insert a digital backdrop while requiring some physical effort. A lot out of your computer is required for this to be done successfully.
· Use decent audio and video sources
Many online broadcasting services help in attaining proper audio and video clarity. After the design of the studio is completed, the next step is to have very good audio and video types of equipment. The tools that have an in-built webcam and internal mic on the laptop will produce a poor quality stream.
There are three different camera options for a live stream studio- A camcorder, DSLR, or a webcam/smartphone. Out of these three webcams are the most budget-friendly option. The minimal quality requirement is 720p but a DSLR can go up to 1080p. The quality of the audio is yet another major consideration and a USB or XLR microphone is suggested for the same.
· Soundproofing the studio
To get the best possible professional streams, the background noise should be eliminated. Soundproofing the studio cancels the outside noises and reduces the echo inside the studio. If other people are present in the house, it keeps the sessions quieter and does not disturb them too. The preferred techniques to soundproof are-
1. Installing soundproof foam panels is the best way to get rid of the background noise. These panels can get a little pricey and unless some extra string adhesive hooks are used some holes will have to be drilled in the walls.
2. Fleece blankets can also be hung on the walls or anything soft like a duvet, towels or linens are a great option.
Not just the walls but the windows also can transmit sound if they are not double glazed. Heavy curtains should be placed on them too to reduce the sound waves. Acoustic panels on the ceiling further help to serve the purpose.
· Lighting
Another major factor is to get good lighting. This creates a difference between the amateur and professional streams. Some decent, inexpensive lighting can make up in case the quality of the camera is not very high. When opting for a good lighting source consider-
1. Avoid overhead lighting and set up the studio to your advantage.
2. Don’t mix the warm and cool lights and try to keep the temperature consistent.
3. Do not make the lighting harsh by using a diffuser
4. Get the necessary pieces of equipment to position the lights correctly
The main types of lights recommended in the case of a home studio are- key light, fill light, backlight, and a ring light. Experiment with the different lighting setups to see what works for the studio and ambiance. One of the most common configurations for a single subject live stream is three-point lighting. It involves a key light off to one side and a fills light on the other side.
· Accessorize the stream
A streaming room with a camera, mic, and lighting is also essential to set up a home studio. Taking a step further in the direction, to make the stream look more professional add accessories to the same. The streaming types of equipment that can be added include-
1. A tripod
2. Arm for the microphone
3. Cables to connect audio and video sources
4. Green screen
5. Stream deck
6. Capture card
7. Light stands
8. Encoder
9. Headphones
· Using the best available streaming software
It is important to choose the best possible live streaming software. Once the physical aspects are done, the software choice comes up. The most popular software encoders are free and pretty straightforward. They help in making a more beginner-friendly choice.
When choosing the streaming software, look for the one that has all the features needed to make the stream professional and engaging. Some of the most important features to look for are-
1. Inviting guests
2. Playing local video files
3. Adding a background
4. Sharing screen
5. Managing live chats from each platform in one hub
· Ensuring the connection
All the work that has been put into the live home studio would go in vain if the internet connection is not stable. Live streaming requires a good upload speed and the ideal range is between 672 kbps and 61.5 Mbps. Since the given range is too wide, the specifics need to be identified.
CONCLUSION
Creating a proper studio setup at home requires some money and time dedication. If you are willing to do all of it then it is possible. This article mentions all the prerequisites for setting up a home streaming studio. You can also live stream using platforms like Mixhubb for better efficiency.
