Going live on Facebook is an amazingly fun way to connect with your friends and followers, but if you've never done it before, you might not know what to expect. Here I'll walk you through the two simplest ways to livestream on Facebook.

How to Livestream from the Facebook app

It's easy to stream from anywhere with just a few taps. 

1. Start by opening the Facebook app on your smartphone or tablet. 

At the top, you will see a section where you can create a new post. 

2. In that post section, tap that icon that looks like a red camera with the word Live next to it. 

Live icon on Facebook app

3. Now choose who will see the live video.

If you want to practice, try selecting Only me. Then you will be the only one who can see the live video.

Choosing who sees your Facebook Live video4. Add a description for your video.

This will show up as the post copy for your followers (or yourself, if you've selected that only you can see the video).

Adding a description to your Facebook Live video

5. Feel free to adjust other camera settings.

You can choose filters or switch between the front and back cameras.Adjusting camera settings in Facebook Live

6. Once you have everything set up, tap the blue Start Live Video button at the bottom of the screen.

Going live on the Facebook app

At this point, you will notice a red Live indicator in the upper left. This will let you know you are live on Facebook!

How to know when you're streaming live on Facebook

8. When you want to end the live video, tap Finish and choose what to do with your video.

You can choose to keep the video in your story for 24 hours, post it on your timeline permanently, upload it to Facebook in HD, or all three.

Sharing your Facebook Live video after you record

 

How to Livestream using your computer webcam

This method is just as easy as the Facebook app method.

1. Start by going to your Facebook page.

2. In the new post section, look for the Live Video option in the upper middle, and click on it.

Going live on Facebook from your webcam

3. From here, you'll be prompted to connect your webcam (or other camera) and choose your microphone source.

Choosing camera and microphone for streaming live to Facebook

4. Just as on the app, you can adjust your privacy settings and choose who will see your video.

Again, choose Only me if you want to do a test live video that no one sees but you.

Creating a private Facebook Live video

5. Now add a description and title and click the Go Live button in the bottom right.

Adding a description to your Facebook Live video
You will see a quick 3, 2, 1 countdown and then that familiar red Live indicator in the upper left. You will also see a timer to let you know how long you have been live.

Going live on Facebook through your webcam

6. When you are ready to end your live video, tap the red End Live Video button in the bottom right.Ending your Facebook live video

That's all there is to it! Please leave any questions in the comments.


To learn more about livestreaming how-tos and strategy, subscribe to the Switcher Studio blog, and follow us on Facebook to see our own weekly live show, #StreamSquad.

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