The most clichéd question people ask themselves is, “Am I choosing the right camera for the live streaming?”
Of course, it is not a simple question to answer as the live streaming cameras are multi-purposed, expensive, and come in a wide range of variety with varied features. Most of the streaming cameras provide excellent quality and are user-friendly.
Determining the best camera for live streaming depends on your needs and where you are going to run them. Therefore, when you have decided to purchase a live streaming camera, you need to consider the following elements to make the process simple.
- Provides HD Video Resolution: There are two levels of High-Definition resolutions – 720p is the standard resolution, whereas 1080p is full HD resolution. Most cameras today offer 1080p resolution and more. The frame rate is the first element to consider, especially if you are streaming any high-speed activities like Sports or a rally. Until 5-years back, HD resolution was a differentiator, but now that is one of the primary things the users look in any camera. We are sure your purchase will justify itself as it benefits the streaming and will create the value for the money.
- HDMI or SDI Output: HDMI is the standard video format used for running an uncompressed video or embedded audio signal for any device. Most of the HDMI signals run without an amplifier up to 50 feet. After that, the amplifier boosts the HDMI signals and sends it to another cable for running longer. SDI is a professional video signal recommended for the production units. This SDI output can run more extended range up to 300 feet, making it more reliable. Say if your production unit has high chances of getting the cable unplugged or tripped over, then SDI make the best connection. The major difference between these two outputs is – HDMI is ideal for the consumer-based live streaming, whereas SDI is highly suggested for the professional production set up.
- Audio Quality: Decide if you will be using an external or built-in-mic for your live streaming. Check what the type of audio inputs available in the camera. Most of the primary cameras do have 3.5mm jack while all the advanced cameras come with the feature of XLR audio. All though some of the cameras do not have the facilities of audio input at all. For example, action cameras do not have these types of features. However, you can connect them with the HDMI audio inserter – an additional device that connects audio with the video sources. The inserter will help you avoid issues like video and audio sync issues in the professional recording interviews or commentaries.
- Compatibility: If you are going to live stream an event, you will need a provider for hosting it. There are numerous providers available in the market, but if you choose the wrong camera, then your options will be limited. The providers are available in the market for the compatibility option. Therefore, you can connect and run through the platforms you decide. Every platform is unique and has different capabilities and needs of running the live show. Also, not all the cameras are built with the live streaming option as a primary usage. For instance, they may require extra cables, hardware, external connector devices, convoluted steep, and more. It will affect your budget by potentially increasing the cost. So, people opt for IP Cameras that are made for live streaming. They are one of the greatest featured with significant services providers and software to support the hosting platform.
- Optical lens for Zooming: Generally, there are two types of camera zoom available, namely Optical and digital. The difference between both of them lies with the resolution. For instance, the optical zoom lens helps you zoom the object or a person without compromising the quality of the video while the digital zoom is a technique; you cannot physically zoom the video & it will affect the video quality. Therefore, people choose Optical zoom as it offers you the flexibility to change between wide-angle and narrow-angle. The necessary zooming capacity for the optical lens would be at least 8x powers.
Final Words
These are some of the basic features you need to consider while choosing the camera. However, make sure you do some research to find the right store and decide how much you want to spend on the live streaming camera. Not only it reduces the list of options but it also helps you make an informed decision. Also remember, not to buy a camera in a hurry. Otherwise, you may end up buying the wrong camera.
So, what you’re waiting for?
Explore a wide range of streaming cameras on the internet & choose the one that meets your needs.
All the best!