When fans can’t be in the stands to cheer on their favorite team, ,watching the game on TV or via live streaming online is the next best option. Especially now with COVID variants that are causing games to be postponed and capacity restrictions to be set, teams of all levels have opted for live streaming to keep their fans engaged.
While the concept of live streaming games is straightforward enough – ensuring you have the correct equipment and platform can prove to be a challenge. Below we’ve included 3 helpful tips to keep in mind when live streaming your game.
Plan & Prepare
Similar to a key rule of real estate, the same applies to your set up for live streaming: Location! Location! Location! That’s right, the location of your sports video tower or end zone camera system make all of the difference. You’ll have to make this decision based on the sport you are filming and the angle that you want to accomplish. For example, if you are filming football then an end zone angle may be best. However, if you are filming soccer, then placing your video camera at the mid-field mark would be best. Make sure to get to your venue early.
Equipment Matters
What equipment do most people need to have when live streaming? Great question. First, you need to make sure you have a video camera set up. For sports, most people use an HD end zone camera system, like a Hi Rise Camera. Using such a system will enable you to capture the high-angle viewpoint that is great for live streaming games. Next, you will need a live streaming encoder. You can purchase a stand alone encoder or you can download encoding software to your laptop and use your laptop as the encoder. Next, you will need to have access to the internet. Ideally, you would like to use the WiFi at the location. However, if that is not possible, you can use a mobile phone hotspot.
As long as you focus on these three key areas, you will have a great experience with the live stream and your fans will as well.
Test, Test, Test
This is the simplest streaming advice, but it’s also the most important. Before you go live, make sure you test everything from your equipment…..to your network connections. This will help you catch any items you may have missed, such as uncharged batteries, ensuring you have all end zone camera parts, or any missing cables. For WiFi, try going to the venue a few days before game day to test the internet signal strength to ensure you will have adequate bandwidth. In the event that you don’t have adequate bandwidth, you can use your mobile hotspot and maybe even add in a signal booster to elevate your cellular signal.
Looking for an HD end zone camera system? Then Hi Rise Camera has exactly what you are looking for! Our towers are changing the way sideline cameras and end zone video camera systems are captured around the world. Get the most out of your live video content by expanding your audience and increasing your potential viewers!