Audio Video Recommendations

Recording platforms

• Riverside.fm  ( Studio link ) (Google Chrome required)
  • Best for high quality audo and video.  Editing required.
• ReStream.io (Studio Link) (Additional recording notes at bottom of this page)
  • Fair quality video and audio.  Live production. 
  • Hard wired Internet connection. WIFI is discouraged.

While digital backgrounds are allowed, we recommend avoiding them when possible, as they often result in less clean edges and a less natural appearance on screen.

Please turn off any applications that provide an audible notification while recording. (Teams, Outlook, etc)

Please turn off any nonessential application and browser tabs.

Best rule of thumb, is turn everything off that is not required to record.

To ensure the best sound quality:

• PLEASE RECORD IN A ROOM AWAY FROM OUTSIDE NOISE.
• We strongly recommend using a high-quality wired microphone, such as the Samson Q2U (available on Amazon).
• Pair it with a wired headset or wired earbuds of your choice.
  • Avoid headsets with an inline microphone (example), as they typically deliver poor audio quality.
  • Preferred: Professional-style behind-the-head headsets (see Amazon options) (or no mic option 2).
  • In our studio, we also use closed-back headsets (example) for a more sound isolation.
• Important Audio Guidelines:
  • Do not use the built-in microphone on your camera—it picks up too much ambient noise.
  • Bluetooth earbuds and wired headsets with external mics are less ideal but can be used if no other option is available.
  • The goal is to capture only your voice, clearly and without background interference.
  • Be mindful of external noise, such as wind, fans, or computer alert sounds, as these can negatively impact your recording.

A 1080p quality camera is suggested.  Most current webcams meet those requirements and will work.  There is many other higher end equipment options, but for this purpose the webcam is adequate.

• I have found Elgato Face Cam is a very stable quality web cam.

Webcams normally make many automatic video adjustments dependent on the light. Please make sure you are well lit from BEHIND THE CAMERA.  Film lighting is normally not needed, but a couple of well-placed lamps, ring light and such can dramatically give aid to a better image. The video links below provides good tips for lighting.

For the best quality and consistency of recording, do not use WIFI. A hardwired computer provides the best signal stability.  If your connection is unknown or unavailable, the best WIFI signal is close to the router, while still remembering best practices for audio and video from above.

A simple/uncluttered background is preferred.

Links to improve on-camera performance.

• 10 Video Conferencing Tips – How to Look Like a Pro
• How To Look Good on Video Calls | Zoom FaceTime Skype | Blogger Secrets!
• TOP 10 TIPS & TRICKS FOR A ZOOM MEETING | LIGHTING | SET UP | MAKEUP & MORE! | MsGoldgirl

ReStream.io Notes

• Private Chat: Only visible to guests and hosts. Notes shared in the private chat are not visible to anyone outside the recording.
• Connection Issues: If you lose connection, simply restart your browser and log back in.
• Recording Time: Keep an eye on the total recording time—displayed in the top left corner of your screen.
• Slide Presentations:
  • You can either upload your slide deck or use screen share (recommended on a second screen).
  • You’ll control the slides yourself to ensure you’re on the correct one at all times.

In conclusion,  “Anyone can excuse bad video quality, but bad audio quality ruins the experience!”