On the latest Live Event Podcast with Host Eventhub CEO Michael Bleau, he learns how to “Live Stream Like a Pro” with special guest Chris Ruggiero. In the episode, they deep dive into lighting and sound design, suggested gear for high and low budgets, the benefits of prerecording vs livestream, and much more.
Listen to the full episode below.
You can also view his setup by watching the podcast episode on Youtube.
Get to Know the Special Guest
Chris Ruggiero is a multi-talented individual. He is an experienced audio, visual, and live stream producer who has helped to create over 100 streamed performance since COVID-19 broke out. He is also a traveling performer, and author, and 2x Guinness World Record holder. His current project,
Between Dreams Sessions, brings together music and stories in an intimate setting.
Think Before You Live Stream
Before jumping into the actual filming, start to think about the setup. Where will filming take place? It is in a professional studio or a living room? What’s the lighting situation like? Start by thinking about what the audience will see, hear, and experience.
Streaming 101:
Lighting Design and Placement
In the podcast, Chris really focuses on lighting the whole space. You want it all to interact with each other. Consider lighting from the front, behind the subject, and on the sides to really create a full, well light effect. This helps to create a fuller experience and not just a flat subject in front of the camera. One easy method to keep in mind is:
Three-Point Lighting: Key, fill, and backlight. Be sure to view the podcast episode on
Youtube to get the full rundown on diffusion, accent lighting, backlighting, and more. You can also check out Chris’s
recommended gear list for lighting suggestions.
Pro tip: Use more light than you think you need. No matter the camera you are using, the (soft) lighter the better. The best way to get soft light out of a harsh bulb is to use a white sheet or a window with a sheer curtain.
Mic Placement and Sound Design
If you are unable to film in a professional studio, then you will want to make the room as soundproof as possible. The smaller the room the better since there is not as much space for sound to travel. However, if you are filming it then a dark closet may not be your best option. Chris suggested moving blankets or the comforter off your bed as good cheap substitutes if you can’t afford expensive sound blankets. Investing in a microphone, even an inexpensive one can help to greatly improve sound quality.
Pro tip: Room tone: before you record anything do a recording that is just the sounds of the room you are recording in. This will help you pick up any background noises you may have missed.
The list could go on and on if you are looking for a good rundown on all the best equipment, regardless of skill level then be sure to listen or watch the full podcast. Chris’s
recommended gear list also has his suggestions for every budget.
Final Live Streaming Pro Tip: Use an ethernet cable – don’t rely on WiFi!
