Streaming Media Content - Streaming Video Content Sources

Most people use a webcam or camcorder as the primary source for their streaming video, but there are many other possible content sources. As long as you can edit the video before making it available, almost any kind of audio visual content can be incorporated into a streaming video.

Live webcasts, of course, do not have the luxury of using a variety of sources unless you have access to a professional production studio and the personnel to prepare the material.

VOD or Video on demand is ideally suited for a mix and match approach to video editing. Adding titles and captions is an obvious editing choice, but you can also get creative by adding still shots, animation, split screens and other special effects.

Still shots are particularly suitable for streaming video because they compress much better than moving video images. You can use photographs or graphics to clarify your topic while at the same time creating visual diversity.

Animation could also be used effectively, but this can be harder for the average video streamer to produce. There is specialized software, however, that can convert a video image into a stylized 'drawing' which can be suitable for special effects.

Rather than relying on your own video footage, you could also incorporate public domain video into your video stream. There is quite a selection available, ranging from silent black and white footage from the dawn of cinematic history to contemporary digital videos which have been released into public domain by their authors. You can find some of these by doing a search for 'public domain' at Google Video.

Screen Captures

Another source of material for your streaming video is screen captures. These are images or videos of a computer screen and are ideal for demonstrating software. They can be used to present a new program or to illustrate specific computer techniques.

Screen captures can be used in combination with a regular 'talking head' shot so that you can see the presenter in one corner of the screen while watching the computer demonstration. Most video editing software allows you to do this kind of 'split screen' editing.

Music and Sound

Do not forget your audio track. Besides the dialogue, music and sound effects can be added which will greatly enhance your streaming video. A musical introduction can be effective for setting the mood of the video and musical interludes can also be used during transition points. These alert the viewer that new material is about to be presented which can add to the overall comprehension of the video.

Most video editing software gives you the tools to make a professional style video. Think of how movies and TV shows are put together and this will give you some great ideas for your own video. Try to give your viewers enough visual diversity to keep them interested but try to avoid boring them with a single shot of a droning narrator. Any message can be enhanced by effective presentation, so if you have something to say, and why else are you making a streaming video, use whatever it takes to get that message across.