Want to connect with your audience and grow your reach? Facebook Live streaming is a powerful tool for individuals and businesses alike. But navigating all the options can be confusing! This comprehensive guide will show you exactly how to live stream on Facebook, whether you’re using a desktop, mobile device, or professional software.
Get Started: Facebook’s Built-in Tools
Facebook offers a free and easy-to-use way to go live right from your mobile app or desktop browser. No additional software or equipment is needed.
Mobile:
- Open the Facebook app on your iOS or Android device.
- Tap the + button and select Live.
- Choose Video and customize your stream’s settings:
- Privacy: Public, friends, or only you
- Sharing: Add to your Story
- Guests: Invite friends to join
- Donations: Support a charity
- Polls & Questions: Engage your audience
- Settings: Add a location, enhance audio, and allow rewind.
- Choose to go live immediately or schedule for later.
- Once live, you can view comments, add reactions, and manage settings.
- When finished, post your stream to Facebook or delete it.
Desktop:
- Visit facebook.com and navigate to the Live Video button.
- You’ll be directed to the Facebook Live Producer page.
- Choose your profile and posting location.
- Select Go live for immediate streaming or Create live video event for scheduling.
- Configure your video source (webcam or streaming software).
- Add post details like a title and description to engage viewers.
- Customize settings:
- Embedding: Allow your stream to be embedded on other sites
- Unpublish: Automatically end your stream after it ends
- Viewer settings: Allow rewind, captions, and messaging.
- Create polls, questions, and graphics to interact with your audience.
- Once ready, press Go Live.
- During your live stream, monitor alerts and engage with comments.
- When you’re finished, press End Live Video and confirm.
Level Up with Professional Live Streaming Tools
For more advanced features and increased control, try professional live streaming software. These tools allow you to invite guests, add overlays, and much more.
StreamYard: Our Top Choice
StreamYard is an excellent option for both Mac and PC users. It’s easy to use, highly customizable, and works across devices.
Here’s how to set up a live stream with StreamYard:
- Create an account and log in.
- Select Facebook as your destination and connect your account.
- Customize your stream:
- Title and description
- Schedule for later
- Multi-streaming to multiple platforms
- Settings: Camera, microphone, echo cancellation, virtual backgrounds, and more.
- Enter the Broadcast Studio.
- Add your video feed and customize the layout.
- Invite guests using a unique link.
- Engage with comments and feature them on screen.
- When ready, press Go Live.
- Stop your stream when you’re finished.
Pricing:
- Free: Includes StreamYard branding.
- Professional ($39/month): Removes branding and unlocks all features.
Find the Best Option for You
Facebook’s built-in tools are perfect for simple live streams. If you need more control and customization, professional software like StreamYard is a fantastic option. Choose the solution that best fits your needs and start reaching a wider audience with Facebook Live!
