Before the game: quick checklist
Use this quick checklist a few minutes before warmups so you can start on time and keep your stream steady and watchable.
- Phone(s): Aim for 50%+ battery (100% is best for longer games).
- Bring power: Pack a portable battery and a charging cable long enough to reach your mount/tripod.
- Free up space (optional but smart): Close extra apps so your phone stays cool and responsive during the game.
- Use a tripod/clip mount whenever possible—avoid handheld for full games.
- Lock the shot: Tighten knobs, clamps, and legs so nothing slowly droops.
- Pick a safe spot: Set up where you won’t get bumped by spectators, stray balls, or kids running by.
- Clean the lens: A quick wipe removes fingerprints that make the video look blurry or hazy.
- Choose one connection: Use the best available option at the venue (Wi‑Fi or cellular)—whichever is more consistent.
- Do a quick check: Make sure you have a solid signal where your mount will be (not just at the entrance).
- Reduce interference: If Wi‑Fi is crowded, move a few rows/feet or switch to a more reliable option.
- Start a quick test preview (or a short private/unlisted test, if you use that workflow).
- Check video: The image is level, not zoomed accidentally, and the action area is fully in frame.
- Check audio: Speak a sentence at your streaming spot and listen back—make sure it isn’t muffled.
- Check distractions: Confirm you’re not blocking the microphone with a case, pop‑socket, or mount clamp.
Quick “ready” confirmation
- Power: Battery is good and a charger is within reach.
- Stability: Mount is tight and positioned safely.
- Connection: Signal is strong where you’re filming.
- AV check: Picture is level and audio isn’t muffled.
- Stability: Lock your mount/tripod.
- Connection: Confirm you have a solid signal where you’re filming.
- Audio: Make sure the mic isn’t covered.
Those three prevent the most common “first-time streamer” issues: shaky video, dropouts, and muffled sound.
It’s usually not the camera—it’s movement (handheld wobble), weak connection, or a dirty lens. This checklist targets all three in under two minutes.