As the host, you and your product should be the main focus to engage the audience successfully.
Tips:
Position yourself so that other on-screen elements do not obstruct you from the camera view.
Try to place yourself in the center or slightly to your right hand side (further left on the camera view) within the camera frame. This will ensure that you and the products you are showcasing are in full view and not obscured when the engagement panel is open on the audience’s view as they shop and chat.
If using a stationary set up, mark spots on the floor with tape to indicate where to stand for optimal viewing. For example, where to stand to capture from the waist up, or for a full length body shot if you are showcasing an entire outfit. However, be sure to avoid distances that are too far from the camera view or that create too much space at the top of the screen.
Live Set Types
When it comes to the best set up for your live event, this should take into consideration the format of your livestream and the products or services you are showcasing. For example, if you are launching a brand new beauty collection and you wish to provide your audience with live tutorials, a stationary selfie set up may be a more ideal option to allow for hands-free use and up-close camera shots.
The three main show setups that you can consider are:
Stationary Selfie
Mobile or Action
Studio
Each setup comes with its own equipment and resource needs, so let’s break it down.
Stationary Selfie
If you’re showcasing product tutorials or operating with a single host, this setup is a great option.
Equipment
Camera + Audio
As a Broadcaster, you are given the option to change your camera and audio devices that will be used for your broadcast. You can use your device’s built in camera or leverage anything with an HDMI or USB output attached to a video capture device.
Options include:
Phone Camera with Built In Microphone
Web Cam with Built in Microphone
DSLR Camera with a Rode Microphone (External Camera Attachment)
Note: Smartphones can be used on their own as a Broadcaster to broadcast the livestream; however, it is suggested that an assistant Moderator is signed on from their desktop or mobile device to moderate the chat or drop products. From the smartphone, it is more difficult to do these tasks while broadcasting with the limited real estate on the mobile device. The Broadcaster’s focus should be on filming the content, or if also hosting the show, engaging with the audience on-screen.
A DSLR Camera offers a more sophisticated solution with better video quality; however, you can procure webcams with 4K resolution to offer an enhanced stream with limited setup time or prior knowledge required. To use your DSLR, camcorder, or action cam to broadcast on your PC or Mac, it is recommended that you procure a 4K Cam Link to transmit the feed.
Additionally, leveraging an external microphone is recommended to ensure that the audio remains crisp and clear, even when on the move.
Lighting
Ring lights are recommended for the dual purpose of securing your camera device, as well as providing added lighting to amplify your host and product during the livestream. The Ring Light should be pointed directly at the set and host. It is recommended to use a Ring Light with adjustable tone and strength settings as it provides more freedom to adjust the lighting to best represent your product and the show host.
Stability
Using a stand or handheld adjustable Tripod gives the Broadcaster the ability to operate with a fixed/ stationary setup or take things mobile with the handheld. The benefit of this tool is that it keeps the camera view stable and enjoyable to the audience, limiting the negative effects of rapid movement and shakiness. A gimbal is also a viable option to reduce these negative effects.
Strong WiFi
WiFi strength is a critical factor in your livestream preparation as it helps to provide a crisp, clean connection for your show. We recommend setting up multiple routers around your store to create a consistent signal throughout the entire space. The better the connection, the better the audience experience.
Additionally, you should conduct a speed test to ensure strong signal strength before your live show. From a device connected to your network, visit http://www.speedtest.net/ to run a speed test and check your upload/download speed. We recommend a minimum speed of 30mbps for Download and 30mbps for Upload speed for optimal streaming quality.
Additional Equipment Considerations
Power Hub
Extension Cord
Dongle
4K Cam Link - To use your DSLR, camcorder or action cam as a professional webcam on your PC or Mac.
Ethernet Cable
HDMI Cord
Phone Holder (Ring Light or Stand Attachment)
Operating the Setup
For this type of setup, you need at least one person to broadcast, host, and moderate. However, we do strongly recommend having an additional Moderator manage the chat and product drops so that the Broadcaster and Host can focus on showcasing products and engaging audiences on camera.
Tip:
Regardless of your chosen set up, it is recommended that you perform a review of your live set space at least 15 minutes prior to go-live. This will give you ample time to ensure all of your equipment is functioning as expected and that you are signed in and ready to begin the broadcast. For our recommended Livestream Checks for Success, click here.
Mobile/Action
Take your audience on a journey throughout your livestream with a mobile setup.
Equipment
Camera + Audio
For this set up, you can broadcast directly from your mobile smartphone, or leverage your desktop/laptop with an external camera to take your video mobile.
To use your smartphone, login to your Broadcaster account on your device to start the stream.
If you are choosing to leverage an external camera, you can leverage anything with an HDMI or USB output attached to a video capture device.
Options include:
Phone Camera
Web Cam
DSLR Camera
You can login to your Broadcaster account and select the dots at the bottom left of the screen to choose your desired camera and audio for your livestream.
Leveraging an external microphone is recommended to ensure that the audio remains crisp and clear, even when on the move.
Be sure to test the sound thoroughly prior to the livestream. With the added movement, background noise and audio disruption could impact the experience.
Stability
An adjustable handheld Tripod or a Gimbal is recommended to keep your stream stable for audiences.
Lighting
Given the mobile nature of your broadcast, ensuring adequate lighting for your entire live space is critical. Leveraging natural light where possible is recommended and using additional ring lights or aerial lights can also help ensure the entire set is properly lit.
Operating the Setup
The recommended crew for this set up consists of 4 individuals:
The Broadcaster - To ensure broadcast quality and control go-live.
The Host (or Hosts) - To engage the audience and maintain the journey.
The Cameraman - To capture the host and direct the show.
The Moderator - To drop products and monitor audience engagement in the chat.
If you're planning on having a lot of products or expecting a lot of viewers, we recommend having more than one moderator to keep up with audience engagement.
Studio
Use a studio setup to showcase your products using the best location and lighting available. This type of setup is optimal for livestreams that require a larger area for filming and often more than one host. This could be used for showcasing products or hosting an interview.
Equipment
Camera + Audio
For this setup, the recommended camera for highest quality is at minimum a DSLR camera to provide the best video quality. External microphones should also be leveraged to capture clear audio and provide enhanced sound quality. This could range from boom mics to outfitting each show host with a wireless microphone.
The camera should be secured using a tripod stand or secured to a ring light. This will ensure minimal shakiness for the audience during the stream.
Lighting
Ring lights are recommended for the dual purpose of securing your camera device, as well as providing added lighting to amplify your host and product during the livestream. The Ring Light should be pointed directly at the set and host. It is recommended to use a Ring Light with adjustable tone and strength settings as it provides more freedom to adjust the lighting to best represent your product and the show host.
Additional studio lights are also recommended to limit shadow and better capture hosts and product.
Operating the Setup
The recommended crew for this set up consists of 4 individuals:
The Broadcaster - To ensure broadcast quality and control go-live.
The Host (or Hosts) - To engage the audience and maintain the journey.
The Cameraman/Producer - To capture the host and direct the show, as well as ensure proper audio capture.
The Moderator - To drop products and monitor audience engagement in the chat.