Prepare an equipment checklist
There are many video and sound capturing as well as recording devices which you can use for funeral live streaming – from an everyday smartphone to professional-level videography equipment.
Many people don’t like to fuss over equipment, however, and rightly so – most smartphones and tablets are perfectly capable in terms of both audio and video, when it comes to funeral live streaming. Whether you choose Zoom, Facebook or YouTube to stream it, is entirely up to you. Naturally, it’s not going to look or feel professional quality, but then again, it’s a memorial service and not a live performance you’re streaming.
For a higher quality live stream, you’re definitely going to need a professional-level camera, a laptop with a powerful processor and a reasonably fast internet connection (either wired or Wi-Fi). Here are some options or ‘combos’ to try, according to the level of professionalism and quality you want to have in your funeral live stream.
For video streaming:
- A smartphone or tablet (cheapest option)
- Laptop with USB camera or webcam (works great for most)
- HDMI-capable camera and laptop
- DSLR camera and laptop (best option but expensive)
For audio streaming:
- Directional microphone with smartphone (cheapest option)
- Stabilizer with stereo microphones to be used with your smartphone (highly recommended)
- Stabilizer with regular microphone to be used with your smartphone (more affordable option)
- DSLR camera with an integrated microphone (best option but expensive)
Accessories:
These can help improve overall performance. A tripod, for example, is the best option but if you or the cameraman is going to be moving around a lot, then a stabilizer is good:
- Tripod for smartphone, DSLR camera or tablet
- Stabilizer for smartphone or DSLR camera
- High quality/premium HDMI cable
Choose a platform
There are many free platforms available for funeral live streaming, such as YouTube, Facebook and Periscope. You can also try paid services or funeral-specific companies to provide the virtual attendees with a more professional experience.
It’s always a good idea to explore the different platforms – free platforms do come with limitations, such as the kind of background music you can choose. In fact, both YouTube and Facebook automatically switch off the live stream’s audio if they detect a commercially licenced tune playing in the background. Other limitations include how long your content stays online and whether it can be made public.
Many people have gone with Zoom for funeral live streaming, although a major drawback is that it’s not very public live stream-friendly.
Let everyone know
With everyone having a presence on different social media channels, here are some safe bets to ensure that the word goes out to everyone:
- Facebook.
- Text message.
- Email.
- Instagram.
- Print a card and send it in the mail (safest bet!).
Hopefully, this guide has helped you see how simple and straightforward it can be to live stream a funeral. May the departed soul rest in peace.
