Videoguy’s Top 10 Tips for Live Streaming Outdoors! – Videoguys

Videoguy’s Top 10 Tips for Live Streaming Outdoors! – Videoguys

On today’s Videoguys Live, James reveals our top tips for a perfect outdoor streaming production! Whether you’re a vlogger, gamer, or live event enthusiast, our expert tips will elevate your outdoor live streams to professional levels. Don’t miss out on learning about the best gear, settings, and strategies for a flawless broadcast.

Watch the full video below:

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Top Tips for Live Streaming Outdoors:

1. Pre-Event Setup and Testing

  • To ensure all equipment functions correctly and to familiarize yourself wit the streaming environment
  • Venue Visit: survey the location to identify potential issues with connectivity, lighting, and sound
  • Equipment Checklist: verify that all gear is present, functional, and compatible 
  • Connectivity Test: stream a test video to check for stable internet or cellular connections

2. Backup Gear is your Livestream Lifeline

  • To prevent disruptions due to equipment failure
  • Spare Batteries and Chargers: for all battery-powered devices
  • Extra Memory Cards: to ensure ample storage for recordings
  • Secondary Audio Equipment: including microphones and cables

3. Redundancy is the Key to Uninterrupted Streaming

  • Cellular Bonding Devices: combine multiple cellular signals for a stronger connection
  • Dual Streaming: use two different streaming services as a fail-safe

4. Combating Glare

  • To protect equipment from the sun and improve visibility
  • Monitor Hoods: block out sunlight for clear screen visibility
  • Protect Umbrellas: shield cameras and operators from direct sunlight

5.  Optimizing Outdoor Lighting

  • To achieve balanced lighting for high-quality visuals
  • Artificial Lighting: employ LED panels and soft-boxes for consistent lighting
  • Ask the venue what the lighting will be like before the show as to not be surprised during

6. Securing Your Equipment

  • To protect gear from weather-related damage
  • Weather-poof Containers: store sensitive equipment when not in use
  • Elevated Platforms: keep gear off the ground to avoid weather damage
  • Consider Outdoor Cameras: designs to heat/cool the camera, and usually water resistant

7. Camera Placement

  • To capture the event effectively without interfering with the live audience or risking damage to the equipment
  • Discreet Placement: tuck cameras close to the sidelines or back of the venue to minimize visual obstruction
  • Safety Netting: install protective netting around cameras to shield them from any stray or flying objects
  • Buffer Zones: create safe zones around cameras, especially in sports events, to prevent collision with balls or players
  • Remote Operation: utilize remote-controlled cameras to reduce the need for operator presence in high-risk areas

8. Ensuring Continuous Power

  • To prevent power less during the live stream
  • Portable Generators: provide a reliable power source for extended periods
  • Battery Banks: offer a quick power boost for mobile devices

9. Portable Solutions

  • To streamline the equipment for ease of transport and setup
  • Multi-Use Equipment: choose gear that serves multiple purposes
  • Compact Design: opt for foldable or collapsible gear

10. Some Great Gear for your next outdoor..

Sports

Event Productions

News Broadcast

Atomos Ninja Phone: Turn Your iPhone into a Monitor / ProRes Recorder – Videoguys

Atomos Ninja Phone: Turn Your iPhone into a Monitor / ProRes Recorder – Videoguys

In his PetaPixel blog post, Jaron Schneider introduces Atomos’s latest innovation, the Ninja Phone, designed to enhance iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max devices for professional video recording. Atomos recently unveiled the Ninja Phone, a revolutionary 10-bit video co-processor enabling filmmakers to monitor and record professional HDMI camera footage directly on their iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max smartphones. This innovative device merges Atomos’s ProRes encoding expertise with Apple’s cutting-edge hardware, notably the iPhone’s OLED display, to deliver exceptional video quality in a portable package.

The Ninja Phone encodes HDMI signals from cameras to ProRes or H.265 formats at 10-bit quality, ideal for HDR applications. This content is then transmitted to the iPhone via USB-C, leveraging the phone’s powerful A17 chip for decoding and display. Atomos emphasizes the Ninja Phone’s superiority over traditional camera screens, boasting features like a 2,000,000:1 contrast ratio, Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG support, as well as 11 stops of dynamic range and a peak brightness of 1,600 nits.

Key to the system is the Atomos Ninja Phone app, which integrates seamlessly with the iPhone, offering control and coordination between the devices. The app adapts effortlessly to portrait or landscape shooting modes, catering to social media creators. Additionally, the Ninja Phone supports external accessories like wireless microphones via a built-in USB-C hub.

Despite its impressive capabilities, the Ninja Phone is limited to recording at 1080p Full HD to optimize latency and data rates. This trade-off ensures optimal performance for professional workflows, including camera-to-cloud operations and live streaming via the iPhone’s 5G and Wi-Fi 6E connectivity.

Atomos’s Ninja Phone represents a groundbreaking advancement for content creators seeking professional-grade monitoring and recording capabilities on their smartphones, underscoring the convergence of filmmaking and mobile technology.

Read the full blog post by Jaron Schneider for PetaPixel HERE

BirdDog Next Gen Cameras are Here – Videoguys

BirdDog Next Gen Cameras are Here – Videoguys

Experience category-defining smooth, controllable movement and stunning image quality with X1 & X1 Ultra, with Halo Tally and AI Tracking for live production magic.

Say hello to seamless connectivity with NDI® | HX3 and Wi-Fi, ensuring you stay at the cutting edge of technological excellence.

An industry-first e-ink display that not only tells you everything you need to know, but stays brilliantly visible even when the camera is off!

X1 & X1 Ultra decode NDI|HX2 / NDI|HX3 at the same time! Say goodbye to guesswork with confidence monitoring or teleprompting output from camera.

Note: Black Models are in stock/shipping right now, White Models are coming soon!

Tally Light. It’s a halo Effect.
Professional results need professional tools. X1 and X1 Ultra sport the most visible and effective Tally system available. Up front with a large, daylight visible border, and out back with an interchangeable, illuminated numbering system. Your cast and crew will always know where to look to keep your audience engaged and your look polished.
AI Tracking. We welcome our AI overlords.
Every production could use a little help from a friend. The X1 and X1 Ultra keep your subject in focus with AI tracking technology, intelligently following your subject’s movements in real-time. Whether you’re orchestrating a live event, capturing spontaneous moments in a hybrid environment, or hunting down sports action, AI tracking helps you get well framed – without needing an octopus to run the controller
NDI® | HX3. Enhanced Reliability on More Networks.
The X1 and X1 Ultra deliver superior network performance via NDI® | HX3 integration. You get significantly reduced network impact and excellent image quality, meaning its more friendly in more network environments. BirdDog’s NDI® | HX3 delivers quality and performance you can count on
Integrated NDI® | HX Decoder. Let’s hook up.
The X1 and X1 Ultra are the world’s first PTZ cameras featuring an NDI® | HX* Decoder designed specifically for confidence monitoring, return feeds, or teleprompter usage. We’ve pulled all this connectivity into a single cable, radically simplifying how you interface with your equipment. Less gear. Less hassle. Whether you’re broadcasting live or delivering a CEO address, the integrated NDI HX decoder enables more brilliance with less setup

Wi-Fi.

Connected but not connected.
No need to use cables to capture every shot. On top of regular ethernet with PoE, X1 and X1 Ultra have built-in Wi-Fi functionality. Easily capture shots from spots where it’s hard to run cable, seamlessly integrating into any environment. Your set up just became a whole lot more flexible
E-Ink Label. Get Inked.
The always-on e-Ink label on the X1 and X1 Ultra are game-changers. From network addresses for easy access to controls, this cool feature ensures that your set-up is clear and each camera easily identifiable even when the power is off

BirdDog MAKI Ultra Box Camera

Available in 12x & 20x 
This NDI® | HX3 camera powerhouse features lightning-fast autofocus and 4K60 capabilities for precise capture. Intuitive physical buttons on the side provide seamless control, letting you stay focused on creativity without technical distractions.

BLACK 12x IN STOCK!

WHITE & BLACK 20x COMING SOON!
  • 4K60 Flexibility: MAKI Ultra features superior image quality, ensuring stunning visuals for every production, offering UHD quality at 60fps. 
  • HALO Tally: MAKI Ultra sports the most visible and effective Tally system on the market, up front with a large, daylight visible border.
  • Compact, yet mighty: A full suite of cutting edge functions cleverly packaged into an easily mountable camera
  • NDI® | HX3: enjoy reliable performance on more networks via NDI® | HX3.
  • Super-Fast Autofocus:  Featuring the latest laser-guided autofocus system, your shots will always be in focus.
  • On-board Buttons:  Easily make on-the fly changes to your framing or exposure
  • Serial Control:  Take control effortlessly with older control protocols, seamlessly integrating with your existing infrastructure.
  • USB Webcam: MAKI Ultra feature USB-C for connecting directly to Zoom, Teams, and most apps that supports a USB UVC input.
  • Control support: MAKI Ultra ships with its own IR remote, plus hardware control support for BirdDog PTZ Keyboard, Skaarhoj, and more

Build Your PTZOptics Bundle and Save with FLEX Bundles – Videoguys

Build Your PTZOptics Bundle and Save with FLEX Bundles – Videoguys

NEW! PTZOptics Producer FLEX Bundles!
Create a custom PTZOptics Bundle Solution with PTZ Cameras,
a controller, and big savings!

The PTZOptics Producer Bundles are very popular, but they just got better! After being highly requested, you now have the flexibility to mix and match cameras, upgrade the controller or customize these bundles to fit your workflow needs. Now you can combine between 3 to 6 cameras plus either the PTJOY or SUPERJOY controller to get 5% off your bundle! Mix gray cameras with white, choose from 12x, 20x or 30x zoom and add the PTZ controller that best meets your needs! Give us a call at 800-323-2325 to help customize the bundle that’s right for you and your workflow with 5% off the bundle!

Choose a Pre-Built PTZOptics Producer Bundle


Or Customize Your Own PTZOptics FLEX Bundle!

With the new PTZOptics FLEX Bundles, you can mix and match 3 to 6 cameras with controller of your choice for a 5% bundle discount

When checking out, use coupon code PTZFLEX for 5% bundle savings!

Move SE
Now with NDIHX license included! This camera combines HDMI, SDI, USB, and IP outputs, in one unit. Move SE delivers high-quality 1080p video at 60fps. Featuring SONY CMOS image sensors, and auto-tracking.
starting at
$999.00

Move 4K
Capture 4K at 60fps (1080p at 60fps via SDI) for future-proof technology that supports HD and Full HD. Enjoy high performance in low-light, PoE+ capabilities, a built-in tally light, and auto-tracking.
starting at
$1,799.00

Link 4K
Featuring Dante AV-H™ and advanced auto-tracking, it seamlessly integrates into complex Dante designs. It delivers broadcast quality while leveraging Dante’s straightforward management for simplified and professional video production.
starting at
$1,899.00

Compatible with most PTZ cameras operating serial or IP protocol, including Sony, the PT-JOY-G4 is a legacy-friendly controller designed to easily integrate into a wide array of existing production systems, and even allows users to switch between protocols with the touch of a button.

Introducing the PTZOptics SuperJoy, a PTZ camera joystick controller designed for smooth, efficient production workflows. The SuperJoy takes remote pan, tilt, and zoom camera operations to the next level in a simplified user interface with advanced controls for power users.

When checking out, use coupon code PTZFLEX for 5% bundle savings! 

The Friday Roundup – Videography Basics and Freeze Frames

Videography Basics Everyone Needs to Know Well maybe not “everyone needs to know” but at least a few of us! So if you are using a consumer grade camera or a smartphone to capture your footage and you are just using the auto settings then you…

RED’s V-RAPTOR [X] Showcase and New Broadcast Solutions at NAB 2024 – Videoguys

RED’s V-RAPTOR [X] Showcase and New Broadcast Solutions at NAB 2024 – Videoguys

At NAB 2024, RED unveiled its cutting-edge V-RAPTOR [X] camera systems alongside groundbreaking Broadcast Solutions. Discover the latest innovations showcased at this year’s National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Show.

Overview of RED’s Presence at NAB 2024:
At the NAB Show from April 13-18, RED introduced its revolutionary V-RAPTOR [X] and V-RAPTOR XL [X], marking a milestone as the premiere Large Format global shutter cinema camera. RED’s display centered around the Global Vision suite, featuring tools like Extended Highlights and Phantom Track tailored for both virtual and live production needs.

Focus on Broadcast Solutions:
RED’s debut of all-new broadcast technologies highlighted advancements geared towards enhancing cinematic imagery in broadcast and live event settings. Notably, the RED CINE-BROADCAST MODULE was unveiled to enable seamless integration with various V-RAPTOR camera systems.

Features of the RED CINE-BROADCAST MODULE:
This innovative module supports live broadcast capabilities with high-quality 4K 60P (HDR/SDR) output via 12G-SDI, along with IP-broadcast readiness utilizing SMPTE ST 2110 (TR-08) standards.

Advanced Workflow Enhancements:
Broadcasters can leverage RED Connect for expanded functionalities, including slow-motion, AI/ML integration, and live to headset experiences using 8K 120FPS R3Ds.

Introducing Broadcast Color Pipeline:
RED introduced the Broadcast Color pipeline for DSMC3 lineup, enabling real-time color adjustments and multi-camera color matching for broadcast and streaming applications.

RED’s presence at NAB 2024 was marked by groundbreaking advancements in camera technology and broadcast solutions. From the V-RAPTOR [X] launch to the unveiling of the RED CINE-BROADCAST MODULE and Broadcast Color pipeline, RED continues to push the boundaries of innovation in the industry.

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Elevate Your Digital Workflow with OWC Storage – Videoguys

Elevate Your Digital Workflow with OWC Storage – Videoguys

On this Installment of Videoguys Live, Gary is joined by Jon from Other World Computing to dive into the world of OWC storage solutions – your ultimate partner in digital creativity. Whether you’re a professional content creator, a passionate hobbyist, or a tech enthusiast, OWC’s innovative storage technology is designed to help you Capture, Create, and Collaborate.

Watch the full video below:

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OWC has created the solutions you need for every part of your workflow to give you the speed and reliability you need to keep on creating new content.​

Memory Cards + Readers

High-performance, premium-quality memory cards & memory card readers designed for the most advanced use cases of professional photographers and videographers. 

SDXC Memory Cards

Atlas Pro V60 affordable, high-quality ​
cards for photo & video

Atlas Ultra V90 for the most ​
demanding uses at maximum ​
camera settings

CFexpress Memory Cards

  • CFexpress Type-B cards available in Atlas Pro or Atlas Ultra series​
  • CFExpress 2.0 and 4.0 specs available​
  • NEW! CFExpress Type A Atlas Pro for SONY Alpha & FX cameras (480 & 960GB)

Card Readers

  • Ultra-fast compact USB4 (40Gb/s) CFexpress 4.0 Type B card reader for creative professionals​
  • Plug and play with USB4, Thunderbolt 4, and USB-C​
  • Ingest at up to 5000MB/s speed. ​
  • Worry-free: 2 Year OWC Limited Warranty

Capture – Software

  • The first upgradable memory cards. Ever.​
  • Enabled by Innergize Software and OWC Readers​
  • CFexpress 4.0 Firmware Upgrade — 2X Speed​
  • Health Check + Sanitization maintain performance over time​

Portable Storage

IP67, Compact​ USB-C 3.2, 240GB-2TB

IP67, High-speed​ Thunderbolt, 240GB-4TB

Ultra-fast, compatible, and reliable portable USB4 NVMe SSD.​ USB4, 1TB-8TB

Desktop Storage

NVMe Semi-Portable RAID​ Thunderbolt, 4-32TB

4-bay Desktop RAID​ Thunderbolt, 8-80TB

Best Seller, 8-bay RAID Thunderbolt, 16-160TB

Dual-Drive

  • Pro-grade speed: up to 40Gb/s with (2) Thunderbolt 3 ports​
  • Flexible storage options: 2 bays for 2.5-inch or 3.5-inch SATA drives​
  • Selectable hardware RAID settings: RAID 0 speed, RAID 1 redundancy, span capacity, Independent​
  • A hub of options: (2) USB 3.2 (10Gb/s) ports for your essential peripherals​
  • Full stream ahead: 2.5GbE for transferring files up to 2.5x faster than standard Ethernet​
  • Easy camera uploads: frontside SD 4.0 (UHS-II) card reader​
  • See your work: HDMI 2.1 port for connecting up to an 8K display​
  • Daisy-chain expansion: add up to five additional Thunderbolt devices
 

Collaborate with Jupiter

Enterprise-grade NAS for high-performance file sharing, ready to grow with teams large and small without sacrificing bulletproof reliability or ease-of-use.

  • Up to 100TB of internal raw storage​
  • Up to 50+ connected users​
  • Quiet 5-bay desktop design​
  • Dual 10GbE + Dual 1GbE built-in

Videoguys is your source for OWC​
800-323-2325 | videoguys.com

OWC Gemini: A Comprehensive Review of this Cost-Effective Drive Soluti – Videoguys

OWC Gemini: A Comprehensive Review of this Cost-Effective Drive Soluti – Videoguys

Explore the capabilities of the OWC Gemini, a versatile drive solution tailored for content creators, musicians, photographers, and influencers. Learn about its features, connectivity options, and suitability for managing high-resolution media projects.

Discover how the OWC Gemini can streamline your creative workflow. This review delves into its specifications, connectivity, and performance for handling 4K and 8K video projects efficiently.

The OWC Gemini is a game-changer for content creators seeking a cost-effective storage solution. Offering built-in USB-C, USB-A, and Ethernet connections, it’s designed to meet the demands of multiple connectivity needs. With a two-bay RAID system and storage capacities of up to 40 terabytes, the Gemini provides ample space for high-resolution media files.

For video enthusiasts working with 4K footage or photographers dealing with high-res stills, the OWC Gemini shines. It can be further optimized by outfitting it with SSDs, making it capable of handling even the most demanding 8K video and ultra-high-resolution raw files. This versatility makes it an ideal companion for professionals looking to scale their creative endeavors without compromising on speed or storage capacity.

The OWC Gemini is not just a storage device; it’s a tool that empowers content creators to manage clutter and unleash their creative potential. If you’re in the market for a reliable, high-capacity drive solution, consider the OWC Gemini for its affordability, connectivity options, and performance in handling demanding media projects.

Ready to streamline your creative workflow? Explore the OWC Gemini today and experience the power of seamless storage for your next big project.

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OWC Gemini Thunderbolt (USB-C) Dock and Dual-Drive SSD RAID External Storage Solution

OWC Gemini Thunderbolt (USB-C) Dock and Dual-Drive HDD RAID External Storage

The Friday Roundup – Camera Angles and Visual Effects

12 Camera Angles to Enhance Your Videos Almost every decision you make as a video maker will inevitably have an effect on how you audience perceives what you have created. Whether it is intentional or not there will be an effect and often it may not…

JVC KY-PZ540 40x NDI HX3 PTZ Camera is a Winner! – Videoguys

JVC KY-PZ540 40x NDI HX3 PTZ Camera is a Winner! – Videoguys

In a recent blog post authored by Terra York for Videomaker, JVC’s KY-PZ540 Series PTZ Cameras have been honored with the prestigious title of Best Camera of NAB 2024. This recognition underscores the remarkable capabilities of these cameras, especially their groundbreaking 40x zoom functionality—a first among PTZ cameras. The KY-PZ540 cameras are equipped with a 4K CMOS sensor and feature a 20x optical zoom for 4K streaming, seamlessly transitioning to HD with JVC’s Variable Scan Mapping (VSM) technology to deliver a full 40x zoom resolution in HD mode.

The design of the KY-PZ540 cameras incorporates intuitive elements, including a two-color tally light, internal microphones, and an IP address display on the front panel, complemented by a diverse range of connectivity options on the rear—such as HDMI, 3G-SDI, and audio ports, as well as USB-C, RS-232C, and ethernet ports. These cameras are available in both black and white variants to suit different aesthetic preferences and environmental settings.

The KY-PZ540 Series supports streaming across various resolutions, delivering up to 60p in 4K UHD and 1080p and 720p in HD. While HD-SDI outputs are capped at 1080p, HDMI can handle 4K streaming effortlessly. Notably, the cameras feature UVC (USB Video Class) and NDI HX3 capabilities in the KY-PZ540N model, facilitating seamless network sharing and enhanced accessibility of video streams.

One of the standout features is the incorporation of H.265/HEVC compression technology, enabling efficient 4K 60p streaming—particularly advantageous for live sports and events coverage, offering improved image quality at reduced bitrates compared to H.264. The KY-PZ540 cameras leverage multi-slice encoding technology to optimize performance and minimize latency in 4K 60p HEVC mode.

Another highlight is the subject auto-tracking functionality, offering five distinct settings: Standard, Area, Stage, Wide Area, and Fine Adjustment. These settings empower users to customize tracking parameters based on specific shooting scenarios, ensuring subjects remain sharply focused and precisely framed throughout.

In summary, JVC’s KY-PZ540 Series PTZ Cameras are exceptionally well-suited for large event spaces, stage performances, sports coverage, and places of worship owing to their exceptional zoom capabilities and advanced auto-tracking features. Priced starting at $1,999, these cameras represent a compelling investment for individuals seeking to elevate their PTZ systems or establish new setups, offering unmatched versatility across various streaming and connectivity requirements. This blog post illuminates the innovative features and practical benefits of JVC’s acclaimed KY-PZ540 Series, positioning it as an indispensable tool for videographers and content creators seeking unparalleled performance in the world of PTZ cameras.

Read the full article by Terra York for Videomaker HERE