Live weddings: “Yes, I accept” in the digital age
For most lovebirds, part of the joy of planning their weddings comes with sharing their “Big Day” with family and friends.
Today’s low-cost communication advancements such as live streaming provide an alternative to holding a traditional wedding, as well as the option of live streaming a wedding to accommodate anyone unable to attend due to health, distance, cost or work. Oh, and it’s always a good idea to plan a wedding with the expectation that some guests won’t be able to make it to the ceremony for a variety of reasons.
Broadband streaming of “I Do” (wedding ceremony) allows secretive, cooped up, or estranged loved ones to witness a couple getting married from virtually anywhere in the world.
Live Streaming Services Expert
Few organizations currently offer a comprehensive portfolio of end-to-end transmission options. Some provide their own equipment and personal support, while others form partnerships with freelance videographers who coordinate, set up, and broadcast the event live. Boutique live streaming service providers place a greater emphasis on helping couples develop a comprehensive social media strategy, in coordination with photography and videography providers.
Various DIY transmission options available to choose from
For couples on a budget, managing all aspects of a wedding livestream can be overwhelming. However, there are plenty of resources available to you, including Skype, Apple FaceTime, IBM Cloud Video, and Google Hangouts to name a few. However, before you jump in, it’s important to keep in mind a few fundamental elements needed to live stream a wedding:
- Reliable Wi-Fi or broadband connection
- Camera-equipped laptop, desktop, smartphone or tablet
- Live streaming service provider that supports high-quality video streaming
- Tripod mounts, if you’re using a smartphone or tablet
Also, it is highly recommended to plan and test your setup in advance to ensure the sustained quality of your video stream. Make sure your video camera or mobile device is in a location that will capture all the activity but is also out of the beaten path of guest activity.
Also, disable any screen savers or sleep features on your computer to reduce the chances of experiencing an interruption during your live broadcast. Finally, make sure guests have the link or home page where your stream will be available, along with any passwords needed to access the live stream.
When planning to live stream a wedding
Depending on your budget or preference, hire an expert videographer with experience in organizing and managing the event (from start to finish) or do it yourself with the help of a knowledgeable friend.
Ensuring that all points of failure are addressed well in advance of service, regardless of whether you hire an expert. A best practice is to test and retest the configuration for reliability, speed, and performance so that the transmission is optimized to perform as intended. Oh, and keep an eye out for copyrighted music played during your ceremony.
In addition to these considerations, it might also be reasonable to make your live stream accessible only to those you have invited to your wedding, i.e. use a live streaming service provider that offers password-protected access.
Saying “I do” in the digital age
Social media and the widespread adoption of “social technology” have changed human traditions and conventions. The effect of living in a web-based society and live streaming requires contextually appropriate engagement.
While online streaming can be a great vehicle for bringing people who are separated by distance together, care must be taken to get the most out of the experience. Thorough preparation and proper etiquette are key to making sure everything goes smoothly on your Big Day!
Live streaming is the easiest way to stream your wedding. Today, a home computer, iPad, Android tablet, or smartphone can deliver high-quality HD video, allowing you to create content without the need for expensive video equipment.