Our Main Live Stream Camera - 4K Image and Under $300?

In this video, Colby Griner from First Baptist Brunswick takes viewers through the church's main live stream camera setup, featuring the Panasonic G7. This setup has proven effective for their needs, offering a balance of quality and affordability. Here is a detailed breakdown of the key points discussed in the video.

Camera Selection Process

Colby explains that the choice of camera for live streaming was driven by several factors, including the number of cameras needed, budget constraints, and the specific features required for their live streams. The church opted for the Panasonic G7 due to its affordability and good image quality, even though it lacks certain advanced features.

Budget and Quantity

The church faced a decision: invest heavily in a few high-end cameras or purchase multiple affordable cameras to cover more angles. They chose the latter, prioritizing having multiple camera angles over having top-of-the-line equipment. This approach allowed them to stay within a budget of around $300 per camera.

Features and Limitations

While the Panasonic G7 doesn't have features like in-body image stabilization (IBIS), autofocus, or excellent low-light performance, these were not critical for their live streaming needs. The focus was on achieving good image quality at an affordable price. The church uses these cameras exclusively for live streaming, avoiding the need to set up and tear down each week.

Lenses and Accessories

Colby highlights the affordability and availability of lenses for the Panasonic G7. The church uses a mix of Panasonic lenses and adapted Canon FD lenses, which are inexpensive and easily found on eBay. This flexibility in lens selection further supports their budget-friendly approach.

Using Dummy Batteries

To ensure continuous power during live streams, the church uses dummy batteries in the cameras. This eliminates concerns about battery life and ensures the cameras can operate for extended periods without interruption.

Practical Advice

Colby advises viewers to purchase used Panasonic G7 cameras and lenses on eBay to get the best deals. He emphasizes that while the G7 may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive cameras, it offers sufficient quality for live streaming purposes.

Community Engagement

Towards the end of the video, Colby encourages viewers to share what cameras they use for their live streams in the comments. This engagement fosters a sense of community and provides an opportunity for others to learn from different setups.

Conclusion

The video concludes with Colby reiterating that the Panasonic G7 works well for their church's live streaming needs, even though it might not be suitable for everyone. By sharing their setup, Colby hopes to provide valuable insights and inspiration for others looking to enhance their live stream capabilities on a budget.