In short
- A livestream is a different job from a recording. It is not a small add-on.
- It usually needs its own operator, a tested internet connection and platform access.
- Agree a backup recording and what happens if the connection drops.
- Raise the livestream early, so the venue and platform can be tested in time.
A livestream is a different job from a recording, so treat it as a change to your booking and not a small extra. Four things need a fresh look: who runs it, the internet, access to the platform, and a backup recording.
What changes when you add a livestream
A recording can be fixed later. A live picture cannot. If the sound drops or the connection fails, viewers see it at that moment. That is why a livestream needs more preparation than a recording of the same event.
| Recording only | Recording with a livestream | |
|---|---|---|
| Crew | Camera operator or operators | Camera operators plus someone who runs the stream |
| Internet | Not needed | Needed, and tested before the event |
| Platform | Not needed | Page or account, with access agreed |
| Sound | Checked and fixed in editing if needed | Must be right as it happens |
| If something fails | Can be improved in the edit | Viewers see it live, so a backup is needed |
1. Who runs the stream
Someone has to watch the live picture, the sound and the connection during the event. That is usually not the person holding the camera. Ask who this will be, and whether they stay for the whole programme. If you also need a live mix between several cameras, see our guide to multi-camera recording.
2. Internet at the venue
The stream is only as steady as the connection. Questions to ask the venue:
- What internet is available for suppliers, and is it separate from guest Wi-Fi?
- Can a wired connection be used where the camera stands?
- Who at the venue can help if it fails?
A venue’s network can change on the day, so we plan a test and agree the backup with you. Our venue questions checklist lists more of what to ask.
3. Platform access
Decide where people will watch: your own page, a webinar tool, or a private link. Then agree:
- Who owns the page or account.
- Who gives the crew access, and when.
- Whether viewers need to log in or register.
- Whether the stream is public, or only for invited people.
- What happens to the recording on the platform after the event.
Leaving this to the morning of the event is a common cause of delay.
4. A backup recording
Ask for a separate recording of the event, kept on the camera or on-site, whether or not the live picture works. If the stream drops, the event is not lost. The finished film can then be made from that recording. Check that the quote lists the backup recording.
An illustrative example
Imagine an organisation that has booked a recording of a 200-person forum, and a week before, a senior member asks if members who cannot attend can watch online. This is only an example.
The questions are:
- Can the venue provide a stable connection for the crew?
- Who owns the viewing page?
- How many cameras are needed for a live picture that is easy to follow?
- Is a backup recording planned?
Each answer may change the crew and the quote, and some answers may mean the livestream is better kept for a later event.
What we confirm for your event
- Who runs the stream, separate from the camera operator.
- A test of the connection and the platform before the event.
- The backup if the connection drops.
- Whether the backup recording is part of the quote.
- Working with your platform and your access settings.
The livestream planning checklist helps you gather these answers. If people will also be in the room, read about hybrid event video, and see the live production guides for the wider picture.
The quote changes with the crew, the number of cameras and the connection needed. See how pricing works and our livestreaming service.
Send us the event date, venue, who will watch and which platform you want to use. We will say whether a livestream can be added for your date and what would change in the quote.
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