The chefs are doing it, your yoga teacher’s doing it, even your auntie’s doing it (about once a week, when she accidentally hits the wrong button on Instagram).
We’re out and about a bit more from today. But with no gyms and IRL performances still forbidden, going live on Instagram is the best way to reach an audience. From rehearsing offline to nailing your tech, this is a guide to becoming a broadcaster.
Dress rehearse
Once you’ve clicked the big scary live button there’s no going back, says Irene Agbontaen, host of Spotify’s TTYA Talks podcast.
So set up a dummy account with no followers to test it out, she says, to get familiar with the functions and feel confident before the real thing.
Set the scene
A ring light works wonders but natural light is better, so set up in front of a window if you can, says beauty-presenting queen Trinny Woodall. She tries to film between 2pm and 5pm to catch the afternoon glow.
If your video involves activity, think about space, suggests founder of Cake and Yoga Club Immy May. “Take time to set up, ensure you have a place to prop your device and space to move,” then place everything you may need within reaching distance, adds FaceGym founder Inge Theron.
Spread the word
A Live isn’t worth doing if you don’t have followers, so logistics are crucial, says Theron. If it’s an interview, “be super clear who is hosting who and on what account” and state the exact time, as time zones can catch you out.
May recommends the Instagram countdown sticker for plugging your event before it starts.
Tech-iquette
Restart your phone just before you begin, says May, then turn the comments off (if you don’t require audience participation). “This means people can see the whole screen, and it’s much less distracting.”
If you’re adding a guest, be mindful of the split-screen, says Agbontaen. “Make sure your camera is positioned so you have enough room around you — the crop can be rude.”
Her other tech tips to consider? Mobile networks tend to work better than WiFi, save the Live immediately once it’s finished, and remember Lives only last an hour so be ready to finish up before the 60 minute mark.
Sound advice
Resist the urge to play your own music, says May. “Instead, share your chosen playlist via Stories” before you begin and viewers can put theirs on at home.
Once you’ve started, ask if people can hear you loud and clear, but don’t shout, laughs founder of Ladies and Gentlemen bars Willy Borrell - advice he was kindly told by followers after his first live cocktail masterclass.
Embrace mistakes
“Have a plan, but not a script,” says Nicky Kelvin, travel expert from The Points Guy. Write down a running order, but embrace mistakes, and keep the tone conversational.
“Just imagine you’re talking to a friend,” says Woodall.
