IRL
IRL (in real life) streams represent real life in all of its forms. This expansive category goes beyond gaming, and is a window to the outside world. Viewers can join streamers as they walk around local areas, go sightseeing, uncover hidden gems, experience the thrill of catching a fish, and more. IRL streams create bridges between communities and cultures worldwide, providing immersive experiences, opportunities to learn, and unique adventures!
You can start up your IRL stream almost anywhere! Before you start, ensure the location you choose is comfortable with live streaming and cameras on site. Keep your community informed so they know what to expect, and then let your personality shine through - if you’re excited about something, they will be too!
Trash Says: “Have a plan and a schedule,” to maximize your time while live!
IRL Stream Setup
You’ll need your phone and a stable internet connection to get started. To elevate your IRL stream you can add a wireless microphone, phone tripod, speaker for alerts, gimbal, battery packs, and even secondary data connections. There are a variety of apps, including the Twitch Mobile app that allow you to broadcast on the go. For a more professional set up, you can use a laptop or mini PC in the form of a backpack.
IRL Streamer Strategies:
Wifi is not always reliable when you’re on the go, so ensure you have a stable internet connection. Check coverage maps ahead of time, and keep in mind that there are many factors that affect your connections such as bandwidth and congestion. Most seasoned IRL streamers encounter a problem or two during a live stream, so if your signal is frustrating you - try not to stress. Consider setting up a server to assist with your stream going down, which allows you to provide your viewers with a “be right back” scene while your camera feed is inactive.
Safety
When taking your stream on the go, it’s essential to prioritize your safety and respect others’ privacy. IRL streaming can be exciting, but it also requires extra awareness of your surroundings and risk assessment. Anything can happen in the moment, so be prepared to quickly mute or disable video if needed.
Be mindful of what you show on camera to avoid unintentionally showing any personal information and prevent doxxing, swatting, or other harm. Remember to keep licence plates, bank cards, or address indicators off of streams and don’t engage in any forms of harassment towards others.
TWITCH TIP:
Familiarize yourself with your camera’s field of view, so you don’t capture more than you realize!
Know your local laws and regulations for wherever you are traveling to and always ask permission before streaming in private venues (businesses, restaurants, and residences). Set up your stream in a way where the focus is on you, instead of those around you. Being considerate of others helps to create a comfortable environment for everyone.
IRL Creator Club
IRL Club | IRL streamers are always out and about, touching grass (literally!). But when they’re done with their streams, the IRL Club offers a community where they can connect with other adventurers. Here you can discuss your newest hardware upgrade, travel recommendations and potentially meet your next travel buddy. Apply here! |
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Interaction Inspiration
Including your community in your decisions encourages them to be a part of the stream and provides insight on what they would like to see. From deciding where you go to what you eat, your community is eager to be a part of it all!
Community Input | Let your community influence your decisions while you’re on the go to boost engagement and let them be a part of the fun. Setting off sound effects, influencing your actions, or guiding the direction of your IRL stream makes every stream an interactive journey. |
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Create rewards that feel authentic to engage viewers. Rewards that can be seen in real-time or influence your actions are popular in IRL! Channel Points can keep your audience interested by having you do a dance, sing a song, or even stop you from talking for 60 seconds. You can even tie sound effects to redemptions or Alerts so your chat can keep you on your toes! | |
Adding a Community Challenge gives your viewers the opportunity to use their Channel Points to unlock special events or streams! From planning your next adventure to challenging you to try something new, your community can vote in what would interest them the most! TWITCH TIP: | |
Elevate your IRL stream with a variety of Extensions, including ones that let viewers make requests using Bits! If comfortable, there are also Extensions that allow community members to see your real time or generalized location as you adventure around. |
