Which Platform? Camera? Invitations? Setting up a Wedding Live Stream can seem daunting. Planning a wedding live stream doesn't have to be stressful! We've been running wedding live streams for years, and we're here to help you from planning and setup to enjoying the day!
Why You Should Live Stream
Live streaming your wedding allows friends and family to stay safe while still enjoying your big day. Whether they're elderly, at-risk, geographically separated, or concerned about large gatherings. a wedding live stream lets everyone be a part of the celebration. No need to worry about party size limits, who gets invited, and planning out seating gaps in tables, let everyone tune in from the comfort and safety of their own homes.
How to Live Stream
You don't have to create the perfect wedding live stream setup from scratch, we've made a list of everything you should consider when planning your big day. By the end of this guide you'll know everything you need in order to get up and running.
Choose a Platform
The first thing to think about once you've decided to live stream is what platform you want to use. Zoom, Youtube, Vimeo, Facebook, Instagram, and more each have their pros and cons. Zoom allows interaction between virtual and physical attendees, which may or may not be what you want for the ceremony (you may not want Uncle Tom to forget his mic is on). Some platforms require accounts to be made, or software/apps to be downloaded, which can be tough for non-techies. Platforms like Youtube and Vimeo allow for a single link to be sent out, making joining in easy for everyone, but only have text interaction.
A different approach is to use separate platforms for the ceremony and reception. During the ceremony, avoid interruptions or confusion by using a simple platform like Youtube. Once the ceremony is over, switch to Zoom to chat with your guests, allow them to see each other, and join in on all the fun.
Still confused about which platform works best? No problem! We made a breakdown of all the different platforms!
Camera
Don't stress about what camera you use. Whether it's a phone, laptop, or proper camera, there's lots you can do to increase the quality of your stream. Make sure the camera is steady, don't try to walk around and show everything. Use a tripod or table and place the camera close enough to frame the couple nicely. Their whole bodies should be visible in the video, but not too small that it becomes difficult to see. With phones or a laptop, you may find you have to set up very close to the front.
If you already have a videographer capturing your day, ask if you can get a feed from them!
Sound Quality Matters
Sound is actually more important than video. You want to be able to hear vows, the officiant, emotional remarks (and jabs), the pronouncement of marriage. If holding an indoor wedding with the camera close to the couple, the internal microphone in the camera should be enough to capture everything clearly. Outdoors, far away, in wind or noise, and it's easy for everything to get drowned out. If you're going to be outside or far away from the camera, considering buying or renting a set of wireless microphones.
Internet
We all know how frustrating it can be holding a video meeting with someone who keeps dropping out, don't let that get in the way of what's important. 95% of internet problems can be resolved by using a wired ethernet cable. If a cable isn't possible, try positioning your router and live stream setup as close together as possible. If you don't have internet, or your connection is really spotty, you can use cell signal or wireless hotspot for decent results (just be mindful of your data bill).
Whichever connection you choose, make sure to test! Run a test stream for 15 minutes to see if there are any interruptions.
Invitations
Don't feel like you have to send out a fancy invitation for the live stream, an email works just as well (if not better)! All the guests need is a link, some instructions, and maybe a calendar invite. Trust us, there's nothing worse than sending a complicated URL on a card for guests to enter incorrectly 10 times.
Remind Those Attending
It's good to remind everyone who will physically be there that the camera will be rolling the whole time. It's easy for photographers walking up the aisle to get that perfect shot, or friends and family trying to take pictures on their iPad, to forget and find themselves blocking the view. If you can, make the setup obvious, or set up furniture or decor blocking people from walking directly in front of the camera.
Have One Person Manage It
Choose someone to be in charge on the day, to manage the tech, make sure guests can see and hear, and troubleshoot any technical problems. You don't want to worry about solving problems while getting dressed, find a friend or family member who is willing to manage it for you.
You Don't Have to do it Alone
Feeling a bit overwhelmed? Don't sweat it! We're here to help, from consultations and setup to full live stream services with our professional videographer. If you feel like you could use a hand, send us a message. It's a complicated time for all of us, so if you need help, there's a free setup consultation on us. Get a better idea of how to make sure all your guests can tune in, even if you don't end up hiring us to do it.