5 Live Streaming Video Tips
Live streaming video is an excellent way to show off your brand’s expertise, build a stronger connection with your audience, and create highly engaging content. It’s one of our top three priorities for 2017 – and it’s only getting more affordable and accessible. Facebook is even expanding its monetization options for live streaming video, allowing broadcasters to take an ad break and share in the resulting revenue.
And you don’t need a huge budget or staff to successfully use live streaming video in your marketing strategy. Here are five tips to improve your live broadcasts.
Tips for Live Streaming Video
Practice – but don’t aim for perfection.
Even the thought of doing a live video on social media is nerve-racking for many people. But – like with most things – it is not as scary as it seems, and it gets easier with practice. Keep in mind that your audience will relate to a broadcast that comes from a real person; that means it’s OK if you aren’t perfect!
If you’re new to live streaming video, get comfortable by doing a rough rehearsal before you hit record. Don’t write a script, but do a run-through of what you’d like to say. You’ll relax and focus on the points you want to make. You can even record it to watch before you go live.
Get the right set-up.
You don’t need top-of-the line studio equipment to shoot a live streaming video, but it’s worthwhile to invest a little time and money into your set-up. Make sure you have good lighting and clear audio, and choose a camera that best suits your purpose. A DSLR isn’t ideal for long streaming video; opt instead for your smartphone mounted on a tripod for stability, or a camera designed to film live broadcasts, like Mevo. Shoot horizontally to capture the best image, and experiment with tools that will enhance your production value, such as Infiniscene, Wirecast or Open Broadcaster Software.
Promote before you go live.
Let your audience know in advance when you’ll be live streaming; Facebook Live lets you notify your personal network, Page fans, or group and event members. Make your live videos a recurring event your audience knows to tune into at a certain time; for example, we host our MtoM Minute feature every Wednesday [is there a set time?] on Facebook Live.
Keep it conversational.
Be natural, and speak the way you would in real life. Stay concise and focused on the topic at hand (shorter is often better with live videos). Keep your audience engaged with relevant information, play off the co-hosts or guests who are joining you, and look for opportunities to interact with your online audience. Incorporating a Q&A segment is a great fit for live streaming video; respond to audience questions or comments, and be prepared to deal with a few trolls along the way.
Roll with the punches.
The best and worst part of a live broadcast is that anything can happen. Spontaneous moments may produce your best content, so be open to where your guests or audience may take you. Be wary of anything dramatic that could be damaging to your brand – but otherwise, have fun with it, and let real life happen in real time.