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The 3 Best Tools for Improving Your Live Streams

Improving Your Live Streams
Written by Abe Cherian

With technology and the internet becoming more accessible, users have more opportunities to share content online.

In particular, many have turned to live streaming due to the popularity of video games and live-streamed content, causing the market to grow at a CAGR of 22.4%.

In addition to being vastly lucrative, streamers are frequently driven by the sense of community and fulfillment they gain from their following.

For instance, a study from Clemson University finds that programming streamers are motivated by their positive influence in sharing knowledge.

Of course, if you’re looking for a similarly rewarding experience in live streaming, it’s crucial to earn your audience’s trust by offering them the highest-quality content you can provide.

To do this, you will need the best tools to improve your production.

Curious to know more?

Here are some that can take your live streams to a new level.

Webcam

A high-quality stream depends on a good webcam since viewers want to clearly see what they’re watching.

The Logitech BRIO is a good choice since it offers 4K streaming and is compact, allowing you a more convenient set-up.

However, digital cameras can also be used as webcams for better quality, control, and versatility.

DSLR cameras are a good choice if you want to express yourself creatively because they come with plenty of manual and automatic settings and feature interchangeable lenses.

The Canon EOS 6D Mark II exemplifies this as it features Full HD 60p videos and advanced features for creators.

However, if you’re looking for something more compact, a mirrorless camera should suit you well: it offers the functionality of a DSLR with the convenience of a point-and-shoot because of its size.

The Nikon Z 8 is perfect as it is compatible with its brand’s numerous lenses and offers excellent quality despite being smaller than the Nikon Z 9.

Microphone

Communicating with your viewers is the heart of your live streams, so investing in a microphone that provides clear input and output of sound through your computer is critical.

Simply using the built-in mics in your devices or investing in a poor-quality one can sound off-putting and may deter audiences from staying on your stream.

When choosing what microphone to buy, it’s essential to understand the purpose of your streams.

Omnidirectional mics receive sounds from all directions, while unidirectional ones only receive sounds from one direction.

If you’re doing podcasts, a unidirectional mic like the Shure SM7B can ensure recording is focused on your voice.

But if you plan to record versatile content like group conversations or music, an all-rounder like the Blue Yeti can serve you well, as it offers both unidirectional and omnidirectional modes.

Streaming software

Finally, you will need dependable live-streaming software.

These programs offer various functions — like receiving input from your camera and mic and video editing features — and may be downloaded onto your computer or used directly from a browser.

When choosing a live streaming software, consider the type and complexity of your content.

An app like Streamlabs can be great for beginners since it’s free and offers customer support.

It also features a Twitch and YouTube chatbot and an integrated donation option.

But if you’re looking for something more wide-reaching, Restream is known for its multistreaming and cross-platform capabilities.

You can also use it to stream to friends’ channels or co-run a stream with your team.


Live streaming can be a rewarding experience, but it requires earning your viewers’ interest and trust.

With these three tools, you can immediately start improving your live streams to give your followers a unique and compelling experience.

 

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Abe Cherian

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