IRL Streaming
IRL (in real life) streaming is a term used to refer to any kind of live streaming that is not gaming. Nowadays, however, people typically use the term to refer to outdoor live streaming.
To do an IRL stream, at the minimum you typically need:
- Video camera and microphone to capture the audio/video footage,
- Audio/video encoder to convert and compress the captured footage to be transmitted for delivery,
- Video streaming platform to receive the encoded footage and further process it for delivery to the viewers, and
- Internet connection as the medium to transmit the footage to the streaming platform.
Most modern smartphones have a built-in video camera and sufficient processing power to do the necessary encoding process. This means all you need to start IRL streaming are simply a decent smartphone with the appropriate app installed, a reliable mobile internet connection (with sufficient data quota), and an online live streaming platform.
Contents
Considerations
Budget
While IRL streaming has become way more accessible in recent years, it is still a relatively expensive activity. The actual cost will depend heavily on the level of quality you're trying to achieve, where in the world you're planning to do the streams, how often you're planning to do it, what items you already have, and your technical capabilities.
For example, if you already have a mid-range or high-end smartphone with unlimited mobile data, and only plan to stream in the city where you live, you might be able to just do it without incurring any extra costs. (Do bear in mind that IRL streaming requires a considerable amount of data and most mobile network operators impose some kind of "fair use policy" for their unlimited packages.)
On the other end of the spectrum, renting a worldwide version of the Gunrun IRL Backpack that is used by many top IRL streamers will cost you $85/day (as of September 2020).
Assuming that you don't have anything yet, only plan to stream in urban areas in your own country for 4-6 hours a week, and can tolerate standard-definition video quality, expect to spend (on average) an initial investment of around $800 plus a recurring cost of $50/month.
Law & Safety
Before doing an IRL stream, make sure to familiarize yourself with the local regulations regarding filming in public. This is especially important when you expect that there will be other people around as they have certain rights to privacy. Private establishments might also have extra rules that you need to adhere to.
It is also important to make sure that you are safe at all times. Be mindful that live streaming often takes your attention away from your surroundings, exposing yourself to the risks of accidents and petty crimes. Having a friend with you might be helpful in this case.
Ocassionally, your viewer might recognize your location and decide to meet you unannounced (a practice known as stream sniping). While such encounters are typically harmless, you should still have an escape plan for when things get uncomfortable. Some streamers delay their streams to reduce the likelihood of this happening.
Platforms
| Platform | iOS | Android | 3rd Party Software | Protocol |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Twitch | Yes | Yes | Supported | RTMP |
| YouTube | Yes | Yes | Supported | RTMP/HLS/DASH |
| Yes | Yes | Supported | RTMPS | |
| Yes | Yes | Not officially supported | RTMP | |
| Twitter/Periscope | Yes | Yes | Supported | RTMP |
