GearCast - Memorial Services: Streaming for a Changing World

When we lose someone we love, closure is essential. We need to remember, celebrate a life, and be together to support each other with consolation and hope. Sadly, congregating in public has now become a source of danger, not togetherness. None of us can be sure when it will be safe to gather together again—yet more than ever, we need to be with, and support, each other with love and understanding.

Houses of Worship have embraced video streamingDefinition:
A method of sending a continuous flow of digital content over IP (Internet Protocol) networks, and often, tailors itself to the user's receiving capability. for services and led the way in showing an effective way to keep people connected in trying times. We can learn from their example for memorial and funeral services, as well as celebrations of life. When loved ones can’t be in the same place to mourn, the virtual togetherness of liveDefinition:
Live broadcast of an event or program without substantial delay or editing. video streaming provides comfort and a shared experience. Although it’s an imperfect solution, it allows loved ones—even those who are now unable to travel and attend in-person—to join together and obtain the sense of closure that’s so needed.

At a time like this, the idea of venturing into new territory (particularly one that may involve unfamiliar technology) can seem daunting. But the increased streaming of House of Worship services, even by small churches, shows that it’s possible and perhaps more importantly, welcome by the congregation.

The Full Compass staff is highly experienced with setting up Houses of Worship for streaming, and we’re ready to share our expertise to help you help others obtain closure during a time of loss. Feel free to reach out to us at 800-356-5844; our friendly, understanding staff can guide you through the process of getting started.

To give an idea of what’s involved, we’ve put together a guide with suggestions on how to set up streaming, from simple solutions to multi-camera systems. You may even have much of what you need already.

SIMPLE VIDEO STREAMING FROM YOUR PHONE OR TABLET

A basic, virtually foolproof way to stream video is with Facebook Live. Simply follow these four steps.

1. On your phone, tap on the Facebook application. Find the “What’s on your mind?” box and select “Live” from the options below it.
2. Type a description of your live stream.
3. Tap “Start Live Video” when you’re ready and use your phone as a video camera to record and stream the video.
4. Tap “Finish” when you’re done.

Tell the family and friends the name of your Facebook page, and the time of the service so everyone can view the streaming video.

It’s that easy. You don’t need anything else for a basic live stream. YouTube also offers webcam-based streaming for all, and from mobile devices to anyone with a channelDefinition:
1. In radio, television, citizen's band radio, and other wireless communications modes, a specific frequency for communication.  2. In mixers and video, an input or output signal path with controls.  3. In MIDI, one of 16 data paths. that has over 1,000 subscribers.

Even this kind of simple setup can provide comfort and a shared experience. However, you might also want to take additional steps to improve the audio and video quality, which gives even more of a “you are there” feel. For example, using two cameras allows switching between a closeup of whoever is speaking, and an overall view of the service.

The easiest way to upgrade the experience is with a kit that bundles together all the components you need. This type of bundle also guarantees that all the elements will work together.

Shure MV88+VIDEOKIT

This is one of our most popular kits, because it’s easy to use and cost-effective. The package includes the Shure MV-88 iOS Digital Stereo Condenser Microphone, Manfrotto PIXI Tripod, phone clamp and shoe‐mount mic clip, and USB‐C (for Android smartphones) and Lightning cables (for Apple iOS). Its main appeal is that it’s ready for audio and/or video captureDefinition:
To acquire audio and/or video, and convert it to a file. right out of the box, within minutes. This approach improves the sound quality dramatically compared to your smartphone’s built-in mic, and the tripod means your video will be more stable. Once you snap in your phone, you’re ready to stream.

SIMPLE VIDEO STREAMING FROM A WEB CAMERA

Another easy option is using a web cam to stream from a laptop or desktop computer. However, a computer’s built-in web cam is usually more concerned with price point than quality. Fortunately, an external web cam can greatly improve video quality.

Logitech C270 HD Web Camera

This is an excellent choice for those on a budget. A big problem with any camera is being able to work under low-light conditions, but the C270 features automatic light correction for capturing good video, even in dim light. For audio, the built-in mic features noise reductionDefinition:
A technique for reducing noise in recording or transmission systems. Single-ended noise reduction systems use filtering to isolate the noise, and expand this signal downward using downward expansion. See Expansion and Downward Expansion. Double-ended systems use symmetrical compression and expansion. See Compansion. technology, so you’ll have fewer distracting sounds in your stream.

Logitech C920S HD Pro Webcam

Moving up a step, the C920S features a sensitive auto-focusDefinition:
1. (stage lighting) To aim and adjust a lighting instrument.  2. (photography) To adjust a camera for the sharpest image., and high-definition video (1080pDefinition:
1920×1080-pixel resolution with progressive scan, also known as Full HD. 1080p can sometimes also be informally referred to as 2K. widescreen at 30 frames per second). Auto-focus is important to obtain a high-quality stream without having to spend time on focusing.

Logitech BCC950 Conference Cam

The long neck and 8-foot USBDefinition:
(Universal Serial Bus) A standard, bi-directional serial connection between computers and peripheral devices. cable let you pick the best angle for your videos. Furthermore, you can panDefinition:
Horizontal pivot of a camera or light, opposite of Tilt, or the placement of a sound element in stereo or surround sound., zoomDefinition:
Continuously variable enlargement or reduction of an image., or tiltDefinition:
The up-down pivot of a light or camera. Opposite of Pan. See PTZ. from the remoteDefinition:
A broadcast from the field, not from the studio. A Remote Control. control. This means you can position the camera optimally, which may not be where you’re physically located while you’re monitoring the stream.

Marshall Electronics 2.5MP HD POV Miniature USB Camera

With 1920 x 1080p resolutionDefinition:
1. (video) The measure of pixels horizontally and vertically. For example, 1920x1080 is considered HD, or high-definition. 2. (audio) The combined bit depth and sample rate of a digital audio signal. at up to 60 frames per second, this is the next step up in capturing a sharp, vivid video stream. This camera adapts automatically to your computer’s capabilities to achieve the optimal resolution.

GoPro HERO7 Black Action Camera

For an easy-to-use camera that’s also rugged, reliable, and will last a long time, the GoPro HERO7 is an excellent choice. The image stabilization features are particularly noteworthy, because even when using it as a hand-held camera, it will look like it’s on a tripod.

STREAM YOUR VIDEO TO THE WEB WITH AN ENCODER

Higher-quality video and audio requires an encoder to stream on the web. These three encoders are our favorite models for combining ease of use with cost-effectiveness.
As mentioned, anyone with a smartphone and a Facebook page can record a live stream. However, to obtain higher video (and audio) quality requires a better camera, which in turn requires an encoder to convert the high-quality video signal into a format that’s usable on the web (smartphones, with their simpler technology, do this automatically). Encoding will produce a professional-quality stream for Facebook and other live-streaming platforms.

Datavideo NVS-33 Video Streaming Encoder and MP4 Recorder

Once the initial set up is complete using a computer or tablet, you can start a stream (or record) from an HD-SDIDefinition:
(High-Definition Serial Digital Interface) A standard interface for transmission of audio and video over a coaxial cable, with a 1.458 Gb/Second data rate. See also: SDI. or HDMIDefinition:
HDMI (High-Definition Media Interface): A standard for connecting video, audio, security, and control signals. camera by pressing a single button.

Matrox Monarch HD Professional Video Streaming and Recording Device

This is one of our most popular encoders, because it balances usability and professional quality. Because you can stream and record a video at the same time, it’s easy to create a copy of the live stream that you can give to friends or family, or post as a downloadDefinition:
To receive data at one computer from another source (computer, electronic mail service, the cloud, etc.) (or embed) on a memorial web site.

AJA HELO Professional HD/SD Recorder & Streamer

Higher-end cameras perform better with an encoder that matches their capabilities. The Helo accepts both 3G-SDIDefinition:
(Serial Digital Interface) 3-gps uncompressed digital standard over a 75 Ohm coax cable, using a BNC connector. and HDMI and encodes up to 1080p at 60 frames per second. The higher frame rates create a smoother video experience during pans and zooms. This robust box is an ideal match for higher-end cameras.

HIGH-END CAMERAS

For challenging video environments, higher-end cameras provide a solution.
PTZ (Pan, Tilt, and Zoom) cameras have become an industry standard for many applications because of their increased functionality, advanced technology, and small form factorDefinition:
A device's general physical configuration or size, often taking into account the ratios of various measurements.. Here are two of our favorites that yield impressive results yet remain cost-effective.

Panasonic AW-UE4

Its wide-angle lens and zoom make this camera suitable for both large and small venues. And with the capability to shoot in 4KDefinition:
3840x2160-pixel video resolution. This is also often called Ultra HD or UHD. Also resolution of 4096x2160, which is popular in the film industry. , you can provide the highest-resolution video stream available with current, common technology. This translates to exceptional detail.

Vaddio ConferenceSHOT 10 HD USB PTZ Camera

With super-fast autofocus and smooth pans and tilts, the Vaddio ConferenceSHOT is designed to help anyone look like an experienced live streamer due to its ability to accommodate multiple video scenarios.

A WORD ABOUT LIGHTING:
You don’t need to light your space like a movie set or a Broadway play, but there are some basic guidelines. Sunny windows and bright bulbs behind a scene will put the subjects in shadow, and often all you’ll see is a silhouette. To avoid that, place light sources in front of, or parallel with, the main subjects. Lamps may work better than the regular overhead room lights. Experiment and see what looks best on your screen, but also be aware that we specifically recommend cameras that work well under fairly low-light conditions.

CAMERA AND CONTROLLER BUNDLES

These plug right into your computer to simplify the video production process.
Having a joystick camera controller allows broadcast-quality pans, zooms, and focus. You can go in tight on the face of a family member giving a reading, and then pull out to set the scene. Please note that these two camera and controller bundles require a dedicatedDefinition:
Designed or used to do a specific task or set of tasks. computer to act as an encoder.

Marshall Electronics PTZ Camera and Controller Bundle

This package includes:

• 12MP Generation 2 USB 3.0 PTZ Camera With 20x Zoom
• Compact PTZ Joystick Camera Controller

This versatile, easy to operate, small-footprintDefinition:
The amount of desk or floor space taken up by a computer or similar device. camera fits virtually anywhere. The controller provides brightness and manual focus controls in addition to the expected pans, tilts, and zooms.

PTZOptics Camera & Controller Video Bundle

This package includes:

• 12MP Generation 2 USB 3.0 PTZ Camera With 20x Zoom
• Third Generation IPDefinition:
  1. IP (Internet Protocol): A digital data standard over Ethernet.  2. IP (Ingress Protection): A rating of an electrical device, such as a lighting fixture, regarding protection from foreign objects or water.  3. IP (Intellectual Property): Refers to creations of the mind, such as inventions; literary and artistic works; designs; and symbols, names and images used in commerce. Intellectual Property is protected in law by, for example, patents, copyright and trademarks, etc.. Joystick Keyboard, Power over EthernetDefinition:
  A local area network (LAN) using cables classified according to certain categories (CAT5, CAT6, CAT5e, etc.). These relate to the speed a cable can handle. (PoEDefinition:
  (Power over Ethernet): Voltage over Ethernet cables to power remote equipment without needing a separate power supply, up to a maximum output of 15.4 Watts.) Capable

The controller offers advanced PTZ controls, such as focus lock and an on-screen display menu. This camera also shoots in true HD format with a 1920 x 1080p resolution at up to 60 frames per second.

SINGLE-CAMERA BUNDLES WITH STREAMING DEVICES

You’ll need to hook the encoder up to a computer or tablet at first to set it up, but then these two bundles are all you need for high-quality live streamingDefinition:
A form of live broadcast using internet services. of your services.

Sony PTZ Camera, RMIP10 Controller, Datavideo NVS-33 Video Streaming Bundle

This package includes:

• Sony SRG300H/W Full HD Desktop and Ceiling Mount PTZ Camera
• Sony IP Remote Controller
• Datavideo H.264Definition:
  Also MPEG-4 AVC (Advanced Video Coding), one of the most common recording formats for high-definition video. Video Streaming Encoder and MP4 Recorder

This Sony camera is desktop or ceiling mountable and features a powerful 30x zoom while capturing up to 60 frames per second. The three-axisDefinition:
The direction where a microphone, speaker, or antenna is most sensitive, or radiates the most power. joystick is particularly notable, because it gives you finer camera motions than other controllers typically provide.

BirdDog 200 PTZ Camera, PTZ Controller, AJA HELO Video Streaming Bundle

This package includes:

• Eyes P200 1080P Full NDIDefinition:
  (Network Device Interface) A software protocol developed by NewTek to allow video-compatible products to communicate, deliver, and receive broadcast quality video, audio, and control signals via Ethernet. PTZ Camera With HDMI/3G-SDI
• BirdDog PTZ Keyboard
• Professional H.264 HD / SD Recorder & Streamer

This camera is designed with professional Sony features, like the CMOSDefinition:
CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor): A type of digital integrated circuit known for extremely low power consumption and the ability to run from a wide variety of power supply voltages. Backlit sensor and true Sony Image Module. However, its unique feature is the BirdDog custom full NDI® silicon chipDefinition:
(slang) Integrated circuit., which optimizes communication among devices for the highest-quality stream possible.

DUAL-CAMERA BUNDLES FOR LARGER SPACES

Using more than one camera requires a video switcherDefinition:
A device that selects from multiple signal sources, for audio, video, or data. In broadcast video production, a combination of switching, preview, and crossfading that uses a video mixer. so that you can choose the right camera at the right time. These last three bundles accommodate a common broadcast studio scenario, which has a dedicated wide shotDefinition:
See: long shot on one camera, and a dedicated close-up on the other. These packages are designed to be solid workhorses for any type of streaming situation.

Two PTZOptics Cameras, PTZOptics Controller, Roland VR-4HD AV Mixer Video Streaming Bundle

This package includes:

• (2) 2.07MP 1080p PT30X-SDI-G2 Cameras With 30x Optical Zoom
• Third Generation IP PT-JOY-G3 Joystick Keyboard PoE Capable
• Roland VR-4HD AV Mixer

The Roland switcher provides a fully-functional desktop studio, with an on-board multi-viewer to set up the next shot. The matching PTZOptics HD cameras have a 30x zoom, and support both 3G-SDI and HDMI for a higher-quality video stream.

Two RoboSHOT 30E USB Cameras, ProductionVIEW Controller, ATEM Mini Switcher Video Streaming Bundle

This package includes:

• (2) RoboSHOT 30E HDMI Cameras
• ProductionVIEW Precision Camera Controller
• ATEM Mini Video Switcher

These RoboSHOT Elite cameras come equipped with enhanced wide dynamic rangeDefinition:
1. Range in dB between a device's noise floor and its maximum available headroom.  2. The difference between the maximum and minimum volume levels that occur in a musical performance., which compensates for uneven lighting by making over-lit or dark areas more visible and defined. The ProductionVIEW Controller allows making advanced image adjustments like red and blue gain, detail, and irisDefinition:
The variable aperture (Opening) in a lens, which controls the incoming amount of light and depth of field.. What’s more, the ATEM Mini switcher was built from the ground up for streaming applications, so it optimizes all aspects of its operation specifically for streaming.

Two Panasonic PTZ Cameras, Panasonic Controller, Roland V-1HD, Monarch HD Video Streaming Bundle

This package includes:

• (2) Panasonic AWHE40WWPJ9 Full HD Indoor PTZ HDMI Cameras With 30x Optical Zoom
• Panasonic AWRP50NJ Remote Pan/Tilt Camera Controller
• Roland Compact 4 HDMI Input 1080p Video / Audio Switcher / Mixer
• Monarch HD Professional Video Streaming and Recording Device

The two Panasonic cameras offer excellent installation flexibility, as they support Power over Ethernet Plus (PoE+), which means you have fewer cables to manage. They also include all the technology you’d expect in higher-end PTZ cameras, like a 30x zoom and full HD resolution. The Roland V-1HD switcher incorporates camera and playback sources like smartphones, computers, and Blu-rayDefinition:
An optical disc that can hold more data than a DVD or CD, has capacity for HD video and other data storage. Typical storage is 25 GB, although higher-capacity options exist. players into the stream to enableDefinition:
To turn on a particular function. fully-produced presentations.

ACCESSORIES

Sometimes it’s the little things that count. Microphones benefit from wind or pop filters, and of course, you’ll need cables and, in some cases, adapters. Even with something as simple as a smartphone-based setup, you’ll need some sort of tripod to hold the phone. Again, we have the experience to make sure you don’t have a last-minute hitch caused by missing some small, but crucial, accessory.

WE’RE HERE TO SERVE

We hope this has helped you gain an understanding of how live streaming works, and how easy it can be to broadcast into the homes of the family and friends. We’re fortunate that today’s technology provides products and packages for spaces and budgets of all sizes.

Even as life slowly returns to normal—which it will—gatherings will likely continue to be discouraged for quite some time. Live streaming services will always remain an option to include those who live far away and can’t attend in person. It also seems that now people have discovered the uses and benefits of live streaming, it will become a bigger part of our everyday lives in the future. The need to shelter at home has underscored the need for human interaction, and streaming is one way to overcome the limitations of not having a physical presence.

We’re here to answer questions and find solutions that best suit your needs. Your personal Full Compass Professional is just a phone call away: 800-356-5844