10 Things to Look for in a Live Streaming Camera

19 July 2019

From YouTube Live to Instagram TV and Twitch, live streaming has become an increasingly popular way for content creators to create engaging videos and connect with their audience in real-time. 

So what’s the best live streaming camera and equipment setup? 

Small webcams used to be all the rage, but with the increased need for higher video quality, more content creators are turning their attention to DSLRs, mirrorless cameras or digital video cameras for their live-streaming needs. Whatever platform you like to use for live broadcasting, the camera you choose will make a big difference to your content’s overall quality and end result. 

To help you choose the best camera for live streaming and vlogging, we’ve put together this guide on what to look out for:


  • Video Resolution - Most modern cameras these days have 4K resolution, which is more than enough. Nevertheless, the first thing to check when searching for a camera for live streaming is that it can capture high-quality video.

The Sony AX53 Handycam provides crystal clear 4K video in a compact handheld body - perfect for live streaming on the go with perfect clarity.

  • AC Adapter - Filming video drains battery power quickly. To avoid cutting your streams short due to a flat battery, try to find a camera that can run on an AC adapter.
  • Clean HDMI output - This enables you to stream a live view of what the camera’s sensor is capturing, without any icons or other details that are found on an LCD screen. It also ensures the video is uncompressed.
10 Things to Look for in a Live Streaming Camera10 Things to Look for in a Live Streaming Camera

For vlogging and live streaming, the Canon Powershot G7X III offers clean HDMI output and a mic-input for using external devices, as well as live streaming direct to YouTube. Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity is also available, so you can connect to your smart device to transfer images, as well as remotely control your camera.

  • Image Stabilisation - If you’re streaming on the go or want to film some video handheld for a less-structured feel, having a camera with Image Stabilisation helps to cut down on bumps and grinds, keeping your footage still and smooth. The GoPro Hero 9 offers exceptional video stabilisation, delivering smooth footage without the need for a separate gimbal - plus it comes with voice control, so you can keep your hands free.
  • Optical Zoom - Again, this is an area where a DSLR or Mirrorless camera system excels. Zooming is done with the lens, which means there is no loss of quality if you need to magnify your image. This is not the case with the inferior digital zoom.
10 Things to Look for in a Live Streaming Camera10 Things to Look for in a Live Streaming Camera
  • Video frame rate - For most streaming purposes this is less of a concern but if you are streaming fast-paced subjects such as sporting events, you want a camera that can be adjusted to a higher frame rate.
  • Audio output - The built-in microphone of most if not all cameras is extremely limited. In order for the audio of your streams to be satisfactory, you will need to purchase a high-quality external microphone, so your camera needs a microphone input.

The Rode VideoMic Go and Canon DM-E1 Directional Stereo Microphone are both excellent mic options to take your audio quality to the next level, and are a great option for live streaming for Twitch.

  • Hotshoe - This is essential for positioning your external microphone in an effective place, or for attaching an artificial light source for a brighter and more attractive stream.
  • Tripod Thread - This will be available on virtually all cameras, but it’s still a major consideration when making your purchase, as you want to have your camera in a steady and supported position so it can capture all of the action. 
     

You should also check out the awesome Black Eye Selfie Stick Tripod Combo. A tripod, selfie stick and filming handle in one, with a Bluetooth remote and attachment system suitable for your mobile device, DSLR or action cam.

10 Things to Look for in a Live Streaming Camera10 Things to Look for in a Live Streaming Camera
  • Tilting LCD Screen - If you are the star of your show, it can be hard to make sure you are capturing all essential information within your frame if you have a camera with a fixed LCD screen at the rear. Having a tilting/rotating LCD screen allows you to sit down in front of your camera with a clear view of what it is capturing, so you can start streaming.

Live in the moment

Live streaming videos and vlogging can be a really fun, authentic way to connect with your audience - or to simply capture some cool footage on a weekend adventure! For a full list of great products, check out The Best Digital Cameras For Filming Videos, and if you’d like any help with picking the right live streaming camera equipment, chat to the expert team at your local Ted’s Cameras store today.


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