In the rapidly transforming digital era, social networking sites are widely spread and used by almost everyone. One of the social media platforms‘ features which is live streaming is becoming an increasingly popular way for users and businesses to connect with each other in real-time. The rising technology has also come up with a trend that is known as multi-camera live streaming which captures all angles of event surroundings and performances.
However, every technology comes up with many unknown features, functionality and a few technology-related concepts that need to be unleashed. Additionally, the potential of such technology like; a multi-camera setup for live streaming must be carefully learned to maximize the returns. Here in this blog, we have picked this popular topic to discuss what multi-camera live streaming is, its benefits, why to use it in your next event, examples, disadvantages and many other aspects of it. So, let’s get started;
What is Multi-Camera Live Streaming?
Multi-camera live streaming refers to a setup which involves multiple cameras strategically deployed at different angles at an event or performance. This means viewers can switch between different camera angles to enjoy the whole event in a more immersive way. Multi-camera live streaming system is more commonly used in concerts, sporting events, conferences and large events where it’s hard to capture everything from a single camera setup.
In simple terms, we can say that, multi-camera live streaming in earlier days were used by TV broadcasters to cover all parts of big events, for example, Cricket matches or even Independence parade at Rajpath. However, nowadays due to the rising popularity of social networking sites, it is now used by many people. From influencers to brands and businesses they leverage such technology to broadcast their event feed more seamlessly over Youtube, Instagram, Facebook or other sites.
But there are big reasons for choosing such interactive technology. What are they? In the next section, we are covering its utmost benefits and those are the reasons why the brand and business is looking forward to incorporating multi-camera live streaming. Let’s have a look at those;
8 Versatile Benefits Of Multi-Camera Live Streaming That Can’t Be Ignored
Every technology comes up with many benefits and advantages, but it depends typically on us how we use it to fulfill our objectives. Here are some of the top benefits that come up with multi-webcam or wireless multi-camera streaming.
Unmatched Experience
First and foremost the live streaming experience it gives to users is unmatched and quite seamless compared to any traditional single-camera streaming. The multi-camera setup allows viewers to switch between different angles, and camera feeds to get an engaging experience.
High-Quality Professional Streaming Feed
Multi-camera live streaming setup makes the overall broadcasting feed into high-quality content that excites the audiences. Additionally, it looks more professional. As an example think of a cricket match and how they mix the whole camera-captured feed into soothing, interactive and appealing visuals. Where you can see the bowler to the batsman hitting the bowl and the audience cheering while listening to the commentary.
Better Coverage Of Events During Live Streaming
Undoubtedly with a multi-camera live streaming system you can capture wide views and every corner you think is suitable to showcase to your viewers. It is also a great approach and a brand activation idea. With such an approach you can showcase all your event attendees, products, and demos all in one frame.
Increased Engagement
Visually appealing content attracts and keeps the viewers engaged till the end and with a multi-camera streaming setup the chances to convert simple streaming into a wonderful one are easier. Furthermore, via such a setup it is way easier to tell and narrate a better story as different angles can be used to highlight different aspects of the event or performance. And also, capture all the actions and moments of the event.
Improved Brand Image
It can help enhance the brand image, by offering professional high-quality video content in real-time shows your dedication and the value you do for your viewers. Additionally, you can also increase the engagement and intersection with your audience by commenting on their question and responding to them.
Cost-Effective Solution
It’s inappropriate to say that multi-camera streaming is completely cost-effective but one thing is for sure the ROI is quite high. If that return is high then any solution can be considered cost-effective as you can attract more viewership and reach your targeted audience. That approach ultimately is more potentially beneficial than any marketing and promotional events cost brands put on TV ads and billboards. Additionally, due to the rising popularity, there are many live-streaming service providers in the market who can offer such solutions at the best price. If you want to know more about the pricing and solution you can book your free demo with Dreamcast and get the best quotation in India.
Higher Revenue Potential
More viewers, more chances to convert them into leads and seal the deal. Additionally higher viewership rates can be beneficial in attracting sponsors and providing more opportunities for advertising and monetization. However, besides all these, you can still have the chance to stream your event on a web-based microsite or event app. You can ask attendees for registration fees, like virtual event fees which are quite popular nowadays.
Scalability
You can scale your live streaming and can be able to cover any large events making it a flexible solution for any organization and size. Furthermore, with wireless multi-camera streaming, there is no need to worry about cables and moving the camera. As you can go anywhere you want and set up.
No matter how numerous benefits any technology gives there are always some disadvantages associated with them. So, here in the next section we have listed a few of the major disadvantages thus multi-camera live streaming systems have.
Disadvantages of Multi-Camera Live Streaming System
A huge number of benefits come up with a few cons as well. As promised at the start of our blog, we will be going to give you all the necessary aspects of multi-camera streaming. So, let’s have a look;
- Complexity: To set up the multi-camera streaming system requires a lot of technicians, personnel, and equipment than traditional single-camera setups. This can somehow increase the risk of technical errors.
- Cost: It is said that it’s cost-effective when you look at its ROI until more personnel, equipment and other aspects somehow increase the overall budget of streaming.
- More Data: More the camera, the more the recording and that data needs to be stored which requires external hard drives or cloud storage and management efforts.
- Skill Personnel: When there is a technology utilizing highly skilled technicians and labour is required. Same here in the multi-camera streaming context, there is a high need for skilled personnel.
These are a few disadvantages and can be considered as the challenges associated with multi webcam streaming. Well, every challenge has solutions and here to eliminate all these challenges you can look for a multi-camera setup for live streaming service providers. They have a dedicated team, skilled professionals, years of experience in setting up and a lot more.
Now, as an individual if you wanted to stream via a multi-camera setup. What equipment you require can be a big question for a lot of people. So let’s explore.
Equipment Requirements For Multi-Camera Setup For Live Streaming
Most of the people who do stream know that there are sets of equipment required for smooth streaming. However, multiple-camera or multi webcam streaming needs a few more pieces of equipment.
Top 7 Essential Equipment For Multi-Camera Setup For Live Streaming
These seven pieces of equipment are the most essential things you must need to have for uninterrupted streaming.
Camera
As the name itself suggests multi-camera streaming which directly means you need at least two or more cameras. Cameras can be DSLRs or camcorders with HDMI or SDI outputs.
Tripods
To mount all the cameras you need a tripod or any other supporting equipment to prevent any shaking or blurring video movement. The number of tripods should be equivalent to the number of cameras.
Switcher
Switcher is one of the main components which helps to switch between the cameras. A switcher can be hardware or software on your computer.
Capture Card
The capture card is needed as it is a type of connector that connects the camera to your computer or switcher.
Audio Tools
Look and invest in some good audio equipment as good audio is the key to successful video streaming. To ensure this look for a branded microphone that can pick up sounds from all angles and work in all conditions. Additionally, you also need sound or audio mixer software that enhances the audio quality.
Lighting
Different environmental conditions need different lighting tools and equipment. If you are in a dark room, the proper lighting is a must. Additionally, to make a professional live stream good lighting is required. As poor lighting can potentially blur the visuals and can compromise the video quality. Consider using softboxes or other diffused light sources to create a professional look.
Cables & Wireless Receivers
Make sure you have all the cables and if you are using the multi webcam or wireless multi-camera streaming you must need wireless receivers. to connect all the cameras, switchers and capture cards. HDMI or SDI cables are common for video and XLR or TRS cables for audio.
Generally, the overall multi-camera setup for live streaming can be complex, but in the end, the results are satisfactory.
Social Platforms That Support Multi-Camera Live Streaming
In the rapidly transforming digital era, there are many social networking sites which have become popular and started offering multi-camera live streaming. Here are some of the popular sites that you can look forward to broadcasting depending on your targeted audience and objectives.
Facebook Live Streaming Services
There is an immense opportunity to broadcast video content using their Live Producer tool. You can establish Facebook live stream multiple camera systems that let you switch between cameras and add graphics.
Youtube Live-Streaming Services
By leveraging the benefit of the Live Control Room tool you can designate Youtube live streams with multiple camera setups. Additionally, they also let you add up to sex cameras.
Twitch Live Streaming Services
Twitch is one of the most popular platforms that is used for video games. It also supports multi-camera streaming. You can use OBS studio software to switch between the cameras.
Instagram Live Streaming Services
Instagram live multi-camera solution lets you go live with three people in real-time each using a different camera setup. Additionally, you can switch between cameras during the broadcast.
LinkedIn Live Streaming Services
LinkedIn Live offers a streaming studio that lets you establish a multi-camera live streaming system for seamless broadcasting of business-related content.
There are other social sites too who also offer multi-camera streaming like Twitter is one of them and others. Further, when choosing the platform for multi-camera live streaming, consider which platform is best and your targeted audience. For example; funny, entertaining content is not suitable for LinkedIn vice versa. Every platform has its features and limitations, so it’s worth doing some research to find the best fit for your needs.
Multi-Camera Live Streaming Best Industry Use Cases
There is no doubt that you can use a multi-camera setup anywhere you want. But utilizing it in the right place or event is quite preferable. Here we have listed some of the best use cases;
- Live concerts and music festivals
- Sporting events and competitions
- Corporate events and product launch
- Weddings and other special occasions
- Trade shows and exhibitions
- Religious ceremonies and services
- Educational seminars and conferences
- Government and political events
- Online gaming and esports tournaments
- Virtual real estate tours and property showcases
Up To You
Multi-camera live streaming is a great way to provide a more immersive and engaging experience for viewers. While it can be more expensive and complex than single-camera live streaming, the benefits outweigh the disadvantages. If you are also looking forward to giving your social viewers an extraordinary experience then you are just a step closer to it. Book your free demo now with us and learn how we can help you achieve this.
We at Dreamcast are a highly dedicated tech-savvy team of professionals who for the past decade are helping businesses and brands to host seamless events.
Connect with the Industry's Most Experienced
Live Streaming Service Providers.
