Live Video – Exciting Video Marketing Trend for 2022

Research has found that 84% of consumers have been convinced to buy a product after watching a video, and they’re twice as likely to share videos than other types of online content. Cisco reported that by 2022, video will account for 82% of all online traffic.

Live Video

Live video skyrocketed in importance in 2020 as the pandemic put a halt on in-person events and experiences. It emerged as an essential way for brands to continue connecting with consumers, and today our outlook on what kind of content is “streamable” has been totally transformed.

Live video is being used by everyone from influencers promoting products to music artists holding virtual concerts to Broadway companies streaming full-length productions.

For content marketers, live video should be at the top of the list of video marketing priorities. Even as life is getting back to normal, consumer demand for live video content isn’t going away — it’s growing.

And while consumers prefer video content in general, they engage at a much higher rate when the content is live. On Facebook, for example, users watch live videos for 3x longer than pre-recorded videos, and live content generates 6x more interactions.

Surprisingly, though, only 28% of video marketers intend to use Facebook Live as part of their strategy (and this stat is similar across social media platforms). More B2B Marketers are reporting the use of video email marketing as an effective tool.

The takeaway? Brands have an opportunity to build engagement and gain a competitive advantage by embracing live video right now.

Smartphone Production

Gone are the days when video marketing required expensive equipment and a big production budget. In fact, even brands that can afford those things are turning to smartphones to create more relatable, authentic content.

Apple gave the concept a platform in their wildly successful #ShotOniPhone campaign. They asked users to submit their best iPhone shots for a chance to have them featured on an Apple commercial or billboard.

Over the years the campaign has generated more than 15 million submissions and proven that video content created on a smartphone can be indistinguishable from what we see in traditional media.

How to Set Up Your Live Stream Equipment

Live streaming online is a great way to spread your message, increase brand awareness, and cultivate relationships with fans and followers.

What Equipment Do You Need for Live Streaming?

You can get started with live streaming with a very basic kit, or you can create a more involved setup for a more professional look. Many common social media channels like YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitch make it easy to create a live stream right from the app. In many cases you’ll only need a cell phone and internet access to get started.

Streaming Equipment for Every Budget and Level
If you’re just starting out with live streams, don’t feel like you need to make a big investment right away. It’s a good idea to research different setups and the kinds of live streams they’re used for before you start shopping. Here are a few common setups to consider:

Entry Level Streaming Equipment Wi-Fi Camera Setup

  • Smartphone, tablet, or webcam
  • Tripod (optional)
  • Wi-Fi Connection

Ideal For: Video Blogs and Podcasts

Intermediate Level Streaming Equipment: Single HD Camera Setup

  • HD Video Camera or Camcorder
  • Tripod
  • Video Encoder
  • Portable Wi-Fi Device

Ideal For: Video Blogs, Podcasts, Small Seminars and Events

Professional Level Streaming Equipment: Multi-Camera Setup

  • Multiple HD Video Cameras or Camcorders
  • Tripods
  • Video Encoder
  • Audio Mixer
  • Computer Graphics Software
  • Portable Wi-Fi Device

Ideal For: Concerts, Church Services, Theater Plays, and Surveillance