5 Things to Know to Go Live

The first thing to know: you can do this.

From SNL to Jimmy Kimmel, it seems like everyone has gone live from home. Some are of higher quality than others, but everyone is starting with the basics: audio, video, and lighting. So, how do you start?

Here are 5 tips to get started:

VIDEO

• Have a camera that is connected to the internet. The higher your connection speed, the higher your video quality will be.
• To test your internet download and upload speeds, (1) Go to Google.com, (2)Search for "internet speed test", and (3) Tap or click "Run Speed Test". Zoom recommends at least 1.2 Mbps upload.
• You can use any device: a phone, laptop, tablet, or webcam work best. The newer the device, the better.
• The most important quality of a camera is clarity. Can you see yourself clearly? Can you see what you’re doing well?

LIGHTING

• The best lighting is even and bright. No harsh shadows and no dark corners.
• This doesn’t mean you need to buy fancy lights. Use what you’ve got on hand!
• Natural light is your best friend. The key to natural light is to have the light face you. Avoid sitting in front of your windows.

Facing away from the light creates shadows

Facing the light creates even and bright lighting

AUDIO

• When you’re talking or instructing, your words are more important than your picture. You want clean, understandable audio.
• You can use any headphones or buds that have a microphone. It helps if you also have Bluetooth wireless connection to whatever device you’re using.
• You could use an external microphone if you would like to have better audio. We recommend a mic like this for any movement classes and like this if you’re going to be talking directly to your audience.
• You can also use your device’s audio!

Earbud audio option

Airpod audio option

FRAMING

• Straight lines are important! Invest in a tripod or establish a flat surface to put your device on.
• You want your camera or device to be straight on to you, level, and even.
• To get your framing even, be sure to look at your room. What is going to be your base for leveling the frame? If you choose one aspect of your room to be the focal point, you will find it much easier to straighten.
• We recommend doing a test over whatever software you’re streaming through (YouTube, Instagram, Zoom, etc.). This helps you understand how your space will be seen by your viewers.

Before proper framing

After framing properly

SET DESIGN

• Less is best.
• Busy backgrounds distract the viewer.
• Take away any extra pieces that simply take up space. You can still have personality, just make sure you’re the focal point.

To wrap up, people understand that this is a new thing. Be patient with yourself as you learn. Create a checklist for yourself so you’re supported. Going live is easier than you think!