The hidden costs of “free” streaming platforms every church should know

Live streaming has transformed the way churches connect with their communities. It’s no longer just an “extra”—it’s a crucial part of reaching worshipers, expanding ministry, and building a sense of belonging even from afar.  For many churches, especially those navigating tight budgets, “free” streaming platforms like YouTube, Facebook Live, or Twitch might seem like the …

Encoding best practices for live streaming in 2025

Live streaming isn’t what it was five years ago. Audiences expect high-quality video that loads instantly, plays smoothly, and doesn’t lag—no matter where they’re watching. At the same time, streaming platforms and content creators are dealing with an increasingly complex technical landscape. Higher resolutions, greater audience demand, and new compression technologies have shifted the way …

What affects live streaming quality today?

Live streaming has become a crucial way for churches to connect with their congregation, making services accessible no matter where people are. But a stream plagued by buffering, lag, or poor audio can be distracting and take away from the worship experience. Several factors determine the quality of a live stream, including internet speed, equipment, …

Choosing the best video encoder software for live streaming

In live streaming, the quality and reliability of your video can make a big difference for your audience. Whether you’re broadcasting Sunday services, special events, or online gatherings, one piece of technology plays a critical role in delivering smooth, high-quality video: the video encoder. Choosing the right video encoder software for your live streaming setup …

What is IMAG and How to Use It At Your Church

Technology is changing how we experience the world, and church worship services are no exception. To keep up with evolving tech trends, many churches are turning to tools like Image Magnification (IMAG). But what exactly is IMAG? It’s a system that uses live video to project close-up views onto large screens, ensuring that even those …

How to Live Stream On Multiple Platforms Successfully

Connecting with your audience means showing up where they already spend their time. And let’s be real—it’s not just one place anymore. Think Facebook, YouTube, your church’s website, and more. Live streaming across multiple platforms isn’t just a trend—it’s a smart way to reach more people and keep them engaged. Of course, managing streams on …

Does Your Church Live Streaming Tech Struggle With Peak-Demand Performance?

Have you noticed your church’s live stream seems to freeze or buffer when the service is at its most powerful? You’re not alone. With more congregations moving to digital worship, managing performance during peak times—like Christmas Eve or Easter—has become a real challenge. These are the moments when you want your message to reach every …