streaming kit

Streaming an IndieWebCamp requires some planning. Streaming can be anything from an extra laptop to a dedicated streamer.

Dedicated Streaming Device

Aaron Parecki uses a Teradeck Vidiu to stream live to Youtube. This is a dedicated hardware box that costs ~$600 and thus may be beyond the budget of some.

Laptop

Laptops, by comparison, are something many people have. Some even have older laptops that can handle the simple duties of a streaming system.

There should be enough to cover all the possible sessions you may conduct. A good inexpensive option is to secure a Chromebook, which is a simple streaming device.

When using a laptop, it is best to add an external microphone, since laptop microphones are optimized to pick up a single person speaking at close range.

Video cameras

The current top option for a good quality camera is the Logitech C920. This camera retails for $70, but can often be found on sale at Amazon. This provides a wider angle view than laptop cameras, and also includes a microphone that can pick up a wider range of the room.

Microphones

In order to cover the room, if possible, it is best to have two types of microphones. A directional one for the presenter, and an omnidirectional for the room. However, this adds the complexity of mixing either in hardware or software. Barring that, you can use a single microphone that is passed around as needed.