As sports fans, we all have different ways of consuming this passion, so it’s more enjoyable from our end. From sports betting to playing online video games in sports, a collaboration between the sports, entertainment, and tech industries does more than enough to keep us on our toes so we’re able to better our experiences time and time again.
Sometimes, sports fans desire to do more than just indulge in their passion. Some may go as far as wanting to share their talents and experience with others who share a similar passion. By now, you may be considering the idea of live streaming your sports games but getting started may not seem as straightforward as looking up the most recent NFL free picks.
Thankfully, we’re here to help; therefore, we’ve put together this comprehensive beginner’s guide you can use to get started. So, don’t go anywhere!
Setting Up A Live Stream
Getting to understand the technical side of live streaming can be relatively intimidating when you don’t have clear and proper guidance on how to go about it. But the good news is that setting everything up isn’t as complicated as you may think.
When you’re sure that you have enough skill and experience to showcase your expertise, buying the right equipment and having a stable internet connection will be your next focus. Once you have these three things in order, you’ll go about setting up your live stream by following these five easy steps:
- Capture your content by connecting your equipment to the streaming device you’ll be using
- Prepare your audio and video content into a streamable file that you’ll use to share online
- Connect your streaming platform of choice and encoder by using a stream URL and key that the platform will provide to you
- Test your internet speed and connection
- Stream your content
Here, the process is simple. You’ll record your video and audio content, encode it, and share it on a live streaming platform.
What Equipment Do You Need?
To set up your streaming event, you need to have the right equipment. Fortunately, once you have all the necessary equipment, setting everything up will be fairly simple from there. But before we go into listing the actual equipment that you’ll need, ensure your streaming device includes the right live streaming software. So, let’s get started.
Camera
You can always start your live streaming with a single-quality webcam, but you can always explore other options if your budget allows for it. Investing in a costly camera isn’t necessary when you’re still a beginner because you can always upgrade your gear as you move along. So, in the meantime, you can always manage with beginner-level video sources like:
- The camera on your smartphone
- An entry-level camera that allows live streaming
Audio
Poor audio quality will affect the overall quality of your live stream. If you intend to keep your audience engaged, you need to invest in the right audio quality. Unfortunately, it isn’t enough to rely on your streaming device’s built-in microphone; therefore, it’s always advisable that you invest in some good-quality audio equipment.
A Capture Card
A capture card is a ‘bridge’ device that you use to transfer the video content you’ve recorded to your main setup. With this, you’re able to display everything your camera is recording on the computer screen. This will help ease your recording experience.
Other Equipment That You Need
In addition to everything mentioned above, in terms of equipment, you’ll also need:
- Lighting: This is an essential step that you shouldn’t take for granted. With the right lighting, your content will look more professional, and this will help keep your audience engaged.
- Accessories: You will need to complement your experience by investing in a green screen, tripod, and microphone
- Encoder: You will use this device to convert your video files from one format to another
Your Top Streaming Channels
The internet hosts several platforms that you can sign up on to reach the audience you’re looking for as you live stream your favorite sports game. But with so many platforms to consider, platforms worth exploring include:
- Branded site
- Vimeo
- LinkedIn Live
- Instagram Live
- Twitch