The 3 Steps To Live Streaming

The capture device you need will vary depending on what you want to live stream and your budget.  Here’s a list of the most popular capture sources:

• IP Cameras
• Traditional Cameras
• Mobile Devices (iPhone, Android)
• Webcams
• Screen Capture Software
• Video Switchers

During this step you will also perform the video mixing, and add any graphical overlays like title cards to your video stream.

So you’ve got your capture equipment – the next step is making sure your video is encoded into the right format for delivery.  There are two types of encoders, hardware and software.

• Hardware encoders are generally geared more towards professionals who require multiple video sources. There are also more compact hardware encoders like the Terradek Vidiu which lets you wirelessly encode and broadcast video directly from a camera.

• Software encoders require a computer to run the software, and the capture sources need to be connected to the computer. This option is generally cheaper and easier to set up. There are a range of software encoders, we recommend FMLE (Free) or Wirecast (Paid).

Once your video has been encoded into the right format, the next step is to broadcast it out to your viewers. First you need a fast internet connection and then StreamShark comes into the picture. You simply enter in the uniquely generated publishing address into your encoding hardware/software, and your captured video will be broadcast to your viewers through our global network of servers. We provide a video player which you can embed into any page you like. You can view an example live stream here.

If you want to get started live streaming check out StreamShark’s free trial.