Live Video Streaming
[THE COMPLETE GUIDE]
Streaming is a method of viewing video or listening to audio content without actually downloading the media files.
Notice: This article contains affiliate promotional links related to video live streaming.
1. What is Live Streaming?
What is streaming and how does it work?
When people used to talk about ‘live streaming,’ it was usually in the context of video games and eSports.
However, as the popularity of platforms like Twitch and Facebook Live has grown, so has the scope of what people want to stream, watch, and interact with.
People still enjoy watching and streaming games, but you could also:
- Cook, eat, and write about unusual foods.
- Simply take a point of view (POV) camera and walk around a touristic town at night.
- Organize a daily news chat in your community.
- Scale models of anime robots should be built.
- Teach people to play a difficult musical instrument.
- Carve furniture or art out of large pieces of wood, or
Many of the themes described above are part of the growing genre of IRL (in real life) streaming, and as these topics and personalities gain in popularity, so do streamers’ media requirements.
Many IRL streamers are gaining tens of thousands of followers. They want to be able to apply this style to all of their assets, including logos and pop-ups.
2. Live Streaming Services
Platforms and content creators are experimenting with live video streaming sites, and the results are promising.
Bringing events closer to audiences that cannot attend is one of the most popular and effective uses of live video streaming platforms.
Here’s a list of the best live streaming platforms available out there:
- Twitch
- YouTube Live
- Facebook Live & Instagram Live
- Twitter Live (formerly known as Periscope.tv which is as of March 31st 2021 acquired by Twitter)
- younow
- LinkedIn Live
- Ustream
Consider whether there are any newer or comparable platforms or themes that you could focus on.
2.1 Twitch
Twitch is a live streaming video platform owned by Amazon subsidiary Twitch Interactive.
The service, which launched in June 2011 as a spin-off of Justin.tv, focuses primarily on video game live streaming, including broadcasts of eSports contests, as well as music broadcasts, artistic content, and, more recently, “in real life” feeds.
The site’s content can be accessed in real time or on demand.
How to Stream on Twitch
- To get started, you’ll need a Twitch account. Friend and follow everyone you know in real life. This will come in handy later.
- Open Broadcaster Software is very capable software to broadcast your stream to Twitch. I’ll walk you through the basics of what you need to know.
- Download OBS and install. If you are using Windows, right click on OBS and ‘Run as Administrator’ so it automatically grants the software permissions to capture your games.
- Open Settings and select ‘Stream’. Select Twitch as the ‘Service’.
- Open Twitch in your browser and select ‘Dashboard’ from your menu in the upper right corner. Select ‘Settings’ from the left nav, then select ‘Stream Key’. Tap ‘Show Key’.
- Paste the key in the OBS field called ‘Stream Key’.
- Read more about how to stream on Twitch
Twitch is the streaming website that spun off the original streaming platform, Justin.tv. For the first couple of years, it functioned as a gaming-only streaming platform. Twitch is by no means a general live video streaming site like YouTube or Facebook Live. It might be a great platform also for you to stream non-gaming live events.
2. 2 YouTube Live
After Google bought YouTube in 2006, the two companies revealed their live streaming app.
According to YouTube’s head of product for consumers, Manuel Bronstein, live streaming allows creators to “actually create a more intimate connection with their fans.”
Learn how to stream live on YouTube
- Webcam : Live webcam streaming is an easy way to stream live without the need for an encoder. Start streaming from your computer / laptop using your webcam. Anyone with a YouTube channel can stream live with the webcam.
- Mobile : With live streaming on mobile, you can stream from the YouTube app. YouTube Live is available on Android 5.0 and later and iOS 8 and later. In order to be able to stream live from your mobile, the channel must have at least 1,000 subscribers.
- Encoder streaming : Using an encoder, you can capture content, including your computer, camera, microphone, and more, and send it to YouTube Live for public viewing.
YouTube Live is free to any creator who verifies their account and activates the live streaming feature. All streams under 12 hours will be archived automatically. You can access past, current and future streams on the Live tab of the YouTube Studio dashboard. You have a couple of options to start streaming to YouTube Live: Simple streaming with your webcam, right from your browser.
2.3 Facebook Live
Facebook Watch, a video streaming service, was first made available to a restricted group of people in August 2016, and then to the general public in January 2017.
Facebook Watch is a live-streaming video application that allows users to share material with their friends.
It allows users to contribute films on a variety of subjects, such as original comedy, drama, and news programming.
When someone is broadcasting on Facebook Live, Facebook users can add their own “reactions.”
How To create a live Facebook broadcast
- Go to https://www.facebook.com/live/create
- Click Create a live broadcast
- Choose where you want to post your live broadcast.
- Select Use a permanent flow key if you want the flow key to be permanent. If you do not select this option, you will not be able to use this flow key again after the flow has ended.
- Start streaming video from the encoder by copying and pasting the server URL, stream key, or permanent stream key into the streaming software settings. There will be a preview screen.
- Write a description and the title of the live broadcast.
- Click on Live Now. If you want to schedule the broadcast for later, tap Schedule a live video .
During the live broadcast, users will be able to react and add comments. You can write replies to comments or reply to them in the broadcast area. Overall, Facebook Live doesn’t offer the same video quality as YouTube Live and doesn’t come with handy monetization options. Still, the number of people who are on the social network is so staggering that it alone would suffice to make Facebook Live a go-to live video streaming site.
2.4 Twitter Live
Twitter, like the other social media platforms, got on the live streaming train swiftly.
Twitter, on the other hand, adds its own flavor to the mix.
You can, for example, listen to audio-only broadcasts. That’s a useful tool for anyone considering using social media for podcasting. Twitter has just made it possible to invite visitors into live streaming, allowing you to include voice commentary from your audience in your broadcast.
How to stream on Twitter Live
- Tap the 📷 camera icon from the composer.
- Tap Live at the bottom selector.
- Tap the 🎤 microphone in the top right corner to go live with audio only. This will turn off the camera and allow viewers to hear but not see you.
- Fill in an optional description that will appear as a Tweet, and a location if desired.
- To invite guests before going live, tap Invite guests to select or search for people to join your broadcast.
- Tap the profile icon of the guests you want to join.
- Tap Save.
- Tap Go live. Your live broadcast, with description and location (if added), will appear in a Tweet in your follower’s timeline and on your profile.
3. What do you need for streaming?
Once you’ve decided what you’ll be streaming and where you’ll be broadcasting it, you’ll need to figure out three things:
- What hardware do I need to stream?
- What software do I need to stream?
- What can I do to make my streaming channel more engaging & memorable?
3.1 Best live streaming hardware
For example, Twitch recommends a computer with at least 8GB of RAM and an Intel i5 CPU if you want to stream video games on your PC.
You’ll also need a graphics card that’s capable of running the games you want to broadcast.
Overall, you’re probably searching for something affordable.
So, what hardware do you need for streaming? Here’s a basic hardware checklist for streaming:
- A computer (laptop or desktop)
- A video camera
- A microphone
A very basic hardware for streaming equipment kit starts at around $735 and includes a powerful desktop, a full HD webcam and a cheap but decent microphone.
A more professional streaming setup includes higher quality stuff and will set you back around $5,500. But, you’ll really make an impression on your audience with the sound and video quality. And if you are serious about live streaming, you’ll be able to get your return on investment relatively quick.
If you want a detailed guide, check out this hardware for streaming guide that lists a good budget streaming setup and high end professional streaming setups.
3.2 What is the best free streaming software?
Free streaming software can give your videos a professional edge. Custom logos, well mixed audio and high resolution will set you apart from the amateurs.
Free streaming software doesn’t have to be expensive — and some of the best is free.
Here are just a few examples of the best free streaming software and where you can download them:
3.3 Make your streaming channel more engaging & memorable
You’ll need to create your own streamer brand to distinguish your channel unique from others.
Here are some streaming tips hat can help you better define your streamer brand.
3.3.1 CHOOSE A MEMORABLE STREAM NAME
It’s a fact that people will return to your stream channel more often if you give it a distinctive name.
However, how can you come up with a memorable nickname for your audience?
You could get inspiration from other well known streamers from your niche. On Twitch, some of the most popular streamers have names like DrLupo, Pokimane, Trick2g, SypherPK, AuronPlay or Rubius.
If you’re having trouble coming up with a good streamer name, you may try using a streamer name generator.
Try one of the generators on this nickname generator website, for example.
3.3.2 CREATE PERSONALIZED GRAPHICS FOR YOUR STREAM CHANNEL
With flashy visuals and overlays that provide an appearance of professionalism, some stream channels stand out from the crowd.
To look professional, you don’t need to be a pro; adding a picture or an overlay to your stream is simple.
Most streaming platforms and streaming software will allow you to add the following graphics to your channel:
- Streaming Layouts
- Streaming Backgrounds
- Banners
- Streaming Overlays
- Streaming Logos
- Video Live Stream Icons
Check out this cool list of over 45 FREE stream overlays that you can download & install in any streaming software.
Want to spice up your stream with layouts, backdrop graphics, and eye-catching overlays?
In your stream, you can choose from a variety of templates.
You can choose what works best for you based on the content you’re watching, your screen resolution, and other factors.
Isn’t that enough?
Make one for yourself!
Here are the top graphic design software free and easy-to-use for all budgets and all skill levels.
3.3.3 BE PROFESSIONAL & STREAM ON A REGULAR BASIS
If you want to build a loyal audience, you must maintain a consistent and predictable posting schedule.
It’s basic, it’s straightforward, and it’s the single most effective way of reaching your audience about when they may see you.
Creating and sharing a timetable with your visitors is an excellent method to build trust and encourage regular viewing.
3.3.4 BE CREATIVE WITH YOUR OUTFITS & ACCESSORIES
On their streams, a lot of streamers employ props.
Setting up an appealing stream backdrop or including facecam frame items such as a poster, a guitar, a framed prize, and so on might help a lot to improve viewer engagement.
If you use a cheap green screen for example you can set virtually any background image or video for your live stream. Other cool streaming props include: posters, neon lights, awards, etc.
3.3.5 GROW YOUR AUDIENCE USING SOCIAL MEDIA
Social media platforms are used by brands, organizations, and institutions every day to engage with their consumers, raise awareness, and generate leads and business.
Brands can effectively spread the word about campaigns, new initiatives, and new products and services by having an engaged following on one or more of the main social networks.
As a streamer, you’ll probably discover that few other social media networks can put you in front of your target audience as effectively as Twitter.
Twitter’s demographics are similar to most streaming platforms (especially Twitch) in that it caters to a younger audience.
As a result, there is perhaps no better site for discovering people who are passionate about gaming and are likely to be interested in your broadcast.
YouTube
YouTube is another platform which you may find incredibly useful as a streamer. YouTube provides you with an easily accessible and densely populated channel through which you can find an audience. The best way you can use YouTube to promote your streaming channel is by posting videos which put all the value your stream has to offer.
Discord
Discord is a free online chat platform dedicated to gamers. It allows users to create and join groups in which they can socialize and discuss games. Many game publishers and streamers use it as a community group for their subscribers and followers.
Reddit is filled with countless active communities devoted to streaming and gaming. A great way to grow your audience is by maintaining an active presence in threads related to your stream.
TikTok
Another social media platform centered on visual videos is TikTok.
Many internet careers have been created as a result of going viral on TikTok.
TikTok may also be shared on other social media networks, making it a simple method to generate content for several networks.
On Facebook and Instagram, TikTok videos receive a lot of attention.
For Just Chatting broadcasters with a physical presence, TikTok is a fantastic platform.
While short gaming video do not normally perform well on TikTok, brief memes, dancing, and live music do.
Other social media outlets for streaming channels
The well known social media platforms are a must, but it’s also a good idea to participate in as many relevant gaming communities as possible.
After all, the more people you reach, the higher your chances of attracting viewers are.
IGN Boards, GameFAQs Boards, and GameSpot Boards are all fine choices, but keep in mind that users aren’t necessarily looking for Twitch streamers on these boards, so don’t spam them.
Instead, cultivate connections and establish a positive reputation before bringing up your stream.
Another subtle technique to promote your channel is to provide a link to your channel in your forum signature.
3.3.6 FEATURE FRIENDS, VIEWERS OR OTHER STREAMERS ON YOUR CHANNEL
Streamers can collaborate directly, stream stuff they wouldn’t ordinarily stream, and expand their networks all at once.
Viewers get different perspectives on the action, a convenient way to support more of their favorite streamers, and the opportunity to engage with multiple fantastic communities at once — or join a new one.
4. How to make money streaming?
We covered the “what”, the “how” and now we come to the “why” of video live streaming.
If you’re simply in it for the money, don’t start a streaming channel. Streaming is all about providing your audience with something to look at, something to learn from, and something to enjoy. However, this does not rule out the possibility of making money with streaming.
Let’s see how to make money streaming games or anything else for that matter.
- Donations: Collect donations by adding a “Donate” button to your channel with services like PayPal, Streamlabs, Muxy, or Donorbox.
- YouTube: Earn money from YouTube Ads by uploading the finest sections of your streams to a YouTube channel.
- Patreon: You can use Patreon to encourage viewers to donate money to you each month in exchange for prizes you develop.
- Affiliate marketing: You can promote products and earn a percentage from affiliate marketing programs like Amazon Affiliates, Ebay Partner Network or Clickbank
- Brand sponsorships: Brands reach out to streamers, but you can also reach out to them.
- Merchandise: Sell branded merchandise you create, such as t-shirts, stickers, mugs, and laptop cases.
- Subscriptions: Sell subscription perks like exclusive chat rooms, subscriber-only streams, unique emoticons, and merchandise discounts.
- Game sales: Selling games on your channel is a way for you to make money (for ex. as a Twitch Affiliate you receive 5% of game sold through your channel)
- Other ad revenue: Twitch ads bring between $0.002 and $0.01 per view depending on various factors.
4.1 How much does a good streamer make?
Part-time streamers can earn $2,000 or more per month. Others may earn between $200 and $300 each month.
There are also some streamers near those numbers who have nearly 1k subs because they have a large number of viewers who cycle over the entire stream, but the viewer count still only shows as 100.
Expert streamers earn between $3,000 and $5,000 per month on average by playing roughly 40 hours per week.
This figure excludes ad revenue, which is estimated to be around $250 per 100 subscribers.
4.2 Who are the highest earning Twitch streamers?
The following are regarded to be the highest-earning streamers:
- Tyler ‘Ninja’ Blevins ($400k — $800k per month)
- Michael ‘Shroud’ Grzesiek (estimated $150k — $200k per month)
- Nick ‘NICKMERCS’ Kolcheff (estimated $100k — $150 per month)
In Conclusion
It’s easy to be intimidated by video live streaming. However, if you understand what it is, how to do it, and which tools to deploy, you may transform your hobby into a source of steady income.
Live streaming video is a powerful way to connect with an audience. It’s a format that drives engagement and as such is perfect for fostering a sense of community.
