STAGING STRATEGIES FOR THE PERFECT LIVE STREAM
Live-streaming has become a standard practice in today’s world of events. Whether it be an exciting keynote speaker, musical performance, or panel discussion, the staging of that live-streamed event is crucial. There are a number of different strategies that could be applied to create a livestream setup that is enticing for everyone. A stage structure on its own would attract the attention of your audience at a live event, but if you’re determined to keep attendees engaged and focused on the message of your speakers from their computer screens, there are a few critical elements to explore.
You and your team of event experts should work together in creating the perfect stage setup to fit your event’s goals and to captivate your digital following.
Pick The Right Streaming Platform
The most important decision you’ll have to make when organizing a live stream concert is which platform to use. The most popular options include YouTube Live, Facebook Live, Instagram Live, Vimeo, and Zoom.
When it comes to deciding on which one is best for your livestreaming purposes, you should choose the platform that your company already has the largest following. More viewers will tune in if they are already familiar with the site. It is important to note that some of these platforms have limitations. Zoom, for example, caps at 1,000 viewers, while Instagram Live can only last for one hour. However, YouTube Live is one of the most popular options. YouTube allows you to make your live stream video public or restrict it to only people who have the link, which works especially well if you plan to sell tickets to your livestream.
Get the Right Equipment
Lighting
Lighting is always crucial when it comes to any sort of performance. The goal is to reach a balance of brightness that makes your presenters look their best without a glare or looking washed out. If you plan to use a printed backdrop, projection screen, or any branding materials, make sure your lighting maintains clear visibility but doesn’t overwhelm the viewers’ eyes. Popular lighting tools include ring lights, softbox lighting kits, or LED lighting panels. The purpose of this component isn’t just to make your subjects visible, but it is also a chance to draw your audience in with style, energy, and creativity.
Camera
To ensure that all eyes are on your speaker and their message, it is important that each camera is of high quality and has access to a unique array of angles. It may be easy to record the entire event on your smartphone, but if you’re looking for the highest quality livestream, we don’t recommend it. If you plan to host more than one live streamed event, a high-quality camera can make a world of difference.
Sound
Your sound equipment should work to ensure that each member of your live-streamed audience, as well as each person on stage, can hear with precise clarity. If you’re live streaming music, you’ll need proper microphones and audio mixers to achieve a sound as close as possible to that of a live concert. Work with a production team and conduct a thorough sound check before your event starts. They might not even realize, but the quality of the sound and production at your event will influence what your audience will think of your brand. For this reason, it is really important to focus on clarity and eliminate any displeasing sounds or technical mishaps. In order to make the best impression on your audience, make sure to tightly control echo, volume, and pitch. This is all easier to control if you’re working with a microphone versus the mediocre built-in mic that comes on many cameras or computers.
Set the Stage
Once you have all the equipment you need, it’s time to set the stage. You’ll want to create a setting that is interesting for viewers, practical for the performers or speakers, and technically equipped for streaming. Don’t be shy when it comes to adding unique stage backdrops. Consider forgoing a printed backdrop in favor of a 3D designed wall or LED screen. Your stage is a prime opportunity to display your brand’s logo. A small investment in high-quality effects allows live-stream events to offer the feel and excitement of an in-person event. You’ll want to put all your extra effort into creating an ambiance that provides a quality viewing experience for your audience.
If you really want to impress your audience with an amazing live-streamed experience, you’ll need to focus on obtaining the highest quality of equipment, unique and eye-catching backdrops and the best production team to put it all together. The event production experts at Wizard Studios can not only create the perfect stage, lighting, sound, and effects to fit your event’s needs, but they have the capability to capture and edit it beautifully too. Want to get started? Contact us today, and let’s make sure your next live-stream is a huge success!