Many people think that you need a special camera for high-quality, professional live videos. What they don’t realize is that they most likely already have one right inside of their pockets!
Most smartphones these days have exceptional video capabilities. Take advantage of this convenient technology to capture professional live videos with the help of these tips.
1. Choose an appropriate location for filming
Quality live videos don’t entirely depend on the technology you use to film. It also requires a quiet and clean location. If your set is noisy or cluttered, your customers are going to be distracted.
Instead, choose an area you know you will be able to film uninterrupted. Then choose a simple backdrop or an orderly area to work your sale.
2. Use sufficient lighting
Even the best cameras in the world can’t film quality video without the use of good lighting. You want the most control over your light source as possible. We recommend a lighting kit or ring light for this purpose.
3. Position and stabilize your camera with a tripod
The camera should be just below eye level once you’re in position to be filmed. A tripod will help you keep your camera in place and stabilize your image.
Once you’ve set up your tripod, you will want to fix the mount to facilitate vertical filming. Mobile content consumption is at an all-time high. Live sales should be filmed in or portrait mode, so that your live video is optimized for mobile views.
4. Improve audio with an external microphone
Audio with static or echo can be disruptive and annoying. Your customers need to be able to hear you clearly. With an external mic, you can instantly improve the production value and provide your audience with crystal clear audio.
5. Check your internet connection
Your video and audio quality will only be as good as your internet connection. Currently, all Facebook Live videos will always stream in 360p. However, they will upload in HD once ended.
We recommend at least 5 Mbps of upload speed to ensure your video uploads in HD after broadcast.
6. Clean your camera lens
It’s all too easy to overlook this and wonder why your video looks blurry. We tend to forget how often we touch our phones. Keep some alcohol wipes on hand to wipe your camera lens of oil and debris before your broadcast.
7. Switch on airplane mode
Don’t let an incoming call disconnect you in the middle of your live video. Switching to Airplane mode will prevent calls and disruptions while filming.
Switching to Airplane Mode is easy. Here are instructions on how to switch to this mode on your iOS or Android phone.
8. Perform a dry run
If you set the privacy of your post to “Only Me” and do a dry run, you can work out any kinks you may encounter before starting your live.
Here you can feel free to test all your equipment and get an overview of what your customers will be seeing. Play it back to be sure that you’re happy with the shot and that the audio is working as planned.
The Takeaway
Producing quality live video doesn’t have to be complicated. Smartphones are already equipped with all the essentials for it.
Adding to your production routine and grabbing a couple of accessories can really bring that polished touch, though. With these tips, you can sell like a pro with noticeably better quality. Happy selling!
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