There is no doubt that Live streaming across social media is a hot topic of the moment that brings many benefits and delivers an authentic experience to social video. Not to mention the social algorithm and reach benefits currently delivered to those going live. At Border.Digital, I'm no stranger to live streaming and even multi-camera, mobile broadcast-level live streaming. I have live streamed on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and Twitter for the company and clients. I've streamed from within a 16th century prison and was even the first ever to multi-camera live stream a mobile parade for over a mile on Facebook. Those have been fun technical challenges, I can tell you!!! ... answer many of the potential questions and dangers that may have stopped you from jumping on the wagon This experience has helped answer plenty of the potential questions and dangers that may have stopped you from jumping on and streaming online. I've seen many more make fundamental errors and clearly jumping on the bandwagon without appropriately thinking it through. So allow me to share and help you confidently take the first step or to raise the bar...

Why Go Live?

Excellent question! Here's some of the important questions you should always ask: What are the benefits to going live for this? What engagements do you want to drive or expect to exist? Could this be a recording that can be carefully edited? Is this really a moment that should be live? Believe me, I have seen many a live video with poor production and evenworse delivery that's failed to deliver its key message at that moment and now still exists online for other to watch on demand. Content that if it were recorded and then edited correctly would continue to serve the business and brand over time as viewership continued after the event. Additionally, it's about showcasing right now and engaging with your viewers and community in the moment. If neither of these points are a requirement, you may be risking quality brand content just to go live.

How to Go Live?

There are many ways to go live from your mobile, to desktop, to special camera's and units. For most though, it's as simple as taking their phones out of their pockets and pressing a few buttons. But believe me when I say, 90% of those that do that are creating very poor content. Remember, you and your brand are expecting time and attention from your audience and community. This comes with responsibilities. There is nothing more annoying than a shaky video. You want peoiple to be engaged, not trying to keep down their lunch. Get comfortable holding your device stable and moving smoothly. Invest in a tripod or some other device to help keep the video nice and stable. Please. I have tried and tested a huge amount of equipment, tech and services and have found the right setup for me and our others. Let us know, we may be encouraged to get a little nerdy and share more on this another time...

Who should Go Live?

Sounds simple enough, but it's important the person in front of the camera or talking from behind is ready, comfortable, knowledgable and capable of communicating to an audience. You will be surprised how many people freeze, stumble or simply forget everything once they go live. Try it out by recording a video and shake off any nerves about talking to the camera and going online.

Prepare to Go Live!

It really is all in the prep. Their are certain types of live broadcasts that you can prepre immensely for, and you always should. Have a script outline to keep you on track, additional media or resources to share with audience and an understanding of how you will handle any issues or engagements (positive and negative). This will emsure the nerves are low and the value of the broadcast to your audience is high!

Finally...

Other broadcasts can be somewhat sponteneous. If this fits you, just make sure you have covered items 1, 2 and 3 above and you'll do great! If you need some help with live streaming either practically or with a little training, please get in touch.