Live event video production has undoubtedly become an integral component of today’s events; from conferences and concerts to corporate gatherings and weddings. Regardless of whether you plan on hosting an intimate dinner party or a large-scale event, high-quality video is critical in immortalizing the moment and captivating viewers. But for beginners, it can be overwhelming to look into live event video production equipment. As such, here is an idiot’s guide to the essential kit required for live event video production.
1. Cameras
- Cameras are the most important part of any video production setup. In the world of live event production, what used of camera you will need is determined by your event’s scale and the desire of your footage quality.
- DSLRs and Mirrorless Cameras: DSLR and mirrorless cameras offer excellent image quality and versatility, making them a popular option for live event production. Cameras that come with interchangeable lenses can be very flexible — particularly for wide shots as well as close-ups, with the latter helping to create those lovely blurry backgrounds known as bokeh. However, they can have limitations when it comes to continuous autofocus or long recording times.
- Camcorders – A traditional camcorder is also a great live event video option. These are video-specific and often come with features that include longer battery life, longer recording time and optical zooms.
- PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) Cameras: APTZ cameras are perfect for larger events since they can be controlled remotely for panning, tilting, and zooming. It becomes particularly useful when there are multiple cameras shooting different angles at an event.
2. Switchers
A video switcher is, as you would expect, a device to switch between different camera feeds during an event. If you’re using multiple cameras, a switcher allows you to switch between angles on the fly. This prevents a static flow of the broadcast or stream from boring the viewers. Switchers like Blackmagic Design ATEM Mini Extreme can be very useful in producing the best live event video production quality.
- Hardware Switchers: These are physical devices complete with buttons and dials that you can use to switch between camera feeds. In terms of functionality, they tend to provide more reliability and faster performance.
- Computer Switchers: Computer-based switchers (like OBS Studio or Mix) are a cheaper option. These let you mix camera feeds, add graphics and even live stream to sites such as YouTube or Facebook. They are not as hands-on as a hardware switchers, however, and can be a good drill for smaller events or budget-driven productions.
3. Audio Equipment
In fact, audio is just as critical as video in creating a professional production (and it is half of the equation). Good audio equipment helps to make sure that speakers or performers can be clearly heard by the audience, whether the audience is in the venue or watching on a live stream.
- Microphones: You may need lapel mics for presenters, handheld mics for one-on-one interviews or Q&A sections, and even (on occasion) wireless mics for presenters or performers.
- Audio Mixers: For multiple microphones or sources of sound output, an audio mixer helps balance the levels and ensures clean audio output. Audio mixers can be hardware or software-based.
4. Lighting
Have good lighting to ensure that your video is clear and professional. Proper lighting techniques can transform an ordinary scene into something visually captivating. Even if you’re using the best cameras, your footage can come out dark, grainy or otherwise unappealing without proper lighting.
- Key Lighting: The main light illuminating your subject. It is typically set in front of the subject being filmed for light.
- Fill Lighting: Fill lights help to soften shadows that are cast by the key light and bring balance to your subject lighting.
- Backlighting: Backlights are placed behind the subject to create depth and separate them from the background, making the shot visually interesting.
Conclusion
Proper live event video production equipment will only happen when you have the right equipment. From cameras and switchers to lighting and audio gear, with a solid grasp of those basic tools you can produce a polished and professional video that conveys the event energy to your online audience. The gear can be complicated but pulling together the basics and broadening your setup as you experience will enable you to get to the best possible video production for live event.