Livestreaming & Video Glossary

Livestream

What it is:
A real-time video broadcast delivered over the internet, allowing audiences to watch as the event happens.

Why it matters:
Livestreaming creates immediacy and connection. When done well, it lets remote audiences feel present — when done badly, it can quickly disengage viewers and damage perception of your brand or event.

 

On-Demand Video

What it is:
Video content that has been recorded and can be watched at any time after the event.

Why it matters:
On-demand content extends the life of your event or message, giving you ongoing value long after the cameras stop rolling.

 

Broadcast Quality

What it is:
A level of video and audio quality comparable to television or professional online broadcasts.

Why it matters:
Viewers subconsciously judge credibility by production quality. Broadcast-quality video builds trust, keeps audiences watching longer, and reflects positively on your organisation.

 

Multi-Camera

What it is:
A production setup using multiple cameras to capture different angles and shots.

Why it matters:
Multiple cameras create visual variety, better storytelling, and a far more engaging viewing experience than a single static shot.

 

Single-Camera

What it is:
A production using just one camera to capture the action.

Why it matters:
Single-camera setups can work for simple scenarios, but they limit flexibility and often feel flat for longer or more complex events.

 

Run Sheet

What it is:
A detailed plan showing the order, timing, and flow of a livestream or video shoot.

Why it matters:
A good run sheet keeps everyone aligned, reduces stress, and allows the production team to focus on quality rather than scrambling.

 

Crew

What it is:
The professionals behind the scenes — camera operators, directors, audio technicians, producers, and more.

Why it matters:
Experienced crew make real-time decisions that technology alone can’t. They’re often the difference between a smooth, confident production and one that feels amateur.

 

Livestream-Specific (The StreamShop)

Live Switching

What it is:
Choosing which camera or video source is shown to the audience at any given moment during a live broadcast.

Why it matters:
Good live switching tells the story in real time. Poor switching can miss key moments or leave viewers watching the wrong thing.

 

Vision Mixer

What it is:
The system — and often the operator — responsible for switching cameras, graphics, and video sources live.

Why it matters:
The vision mixer is the control centre of a livestream. Skilled operation ensures the broadcast feels intentional, polished, and easy to follow.

 

Encoder

What it is:
Hardware or software that converts video and audio into a format suitable for livestreaming online.

Why it matters:
A reliable encoder ensures stable streams and consistent quality, even under challenging internet conditions.

 

Latency

What it is:
The delay between something happening live and the viewer seeing it on their screen.

Why it matters:
Lower latency creates a more interactive and “live” experience — especially important for Q&A sessions, auctions, or sport.

 

Redundancy

What it is:
Backup systems for internet, power, and equipment.

Why it matters:
Live events don’t get a second take. Redundancy protects against technical failures and reduces risk for mission‑critical broadcasts.

 

Hybrid Event

What it is:
An event with both in‑person and online audiences.

Why it matters:
Hybrid events expand reach and accessibility, but only work if the online audience is treated as a first‑class experience — not an afterthought.

 

Sport & Performance Streaming

Coverage

What it is:
How an event is filmed and presented, including camera angles, framing, and shot selection.

Why it matters:
Good coverage makes sport watchable and enjoyable. Poor coverage can make even great performances frustrating to follow.

 

Camera Placement

What it is:
Where cameras are positioned to capture the action.

Why it matters:
Camera placement is often the biggest factor in quality sport coverage. Once the event starts, bad placement can’t be fixed.

 

Replay

What it is:
Playback of key moments during or after a live broadcast.

Why it matters:
Replays help audiences understand and relive important moments, adding clarity and professionalism to sports and performance streams.

 

Content Studio / Non‑Live Video

Pre‑Production

What it is:
The planning stage before filming, including concept, scripting, and logistics.

Why it matters:
Strong pre‑production saves time and money, and results in clearer, more effective content.

 

Production

What it is:
The filming stage, where video and audio are captured.

Why it matters:
This is where planning meets reality. Skilled production ensures the footage captured is usable, consistent, and high quality.

 

Post‑Production

What it is:
The process after filming, including editing, sound, colour, and graphics.

Why it matters:
Post‑production shapes the final story. It’s where good footage becomes compelling content.

 

B‑Roll

What it is:
Supplementary footage that supports the main narrative.

Why it matters:
B‑roll adds context, visual interest, and professionalism — and prevents videos from feeling static or repetitive.

 

Deliverables

What it is:
The final video files provided to a client, often in multiple formats.

Why it matters:
Clear deliverables ensure your content works across platforms and meets its intended purpose.

 

Aspect Ratio

What it is:
The shape of the video frame, such as widescreen, square, or vertical.

Why it matters:
Choosing the right aspect ratio ensures your content looks natural and performs well on each platform.