You don’t need a specific number of followers to go live on Instagram. Instagram Live is available to users with a public business account, allowing them to connect with your followers in real time regardless of the number of followers. Main features include accommodate up to 3 people, save broadcastsAnd monetization via Instagram badges. To start a live broadcast, tap the “+” icon, select “Live”, set the broadcast details, make sure Stable Internet and good lightingthen tap “Go Live”.
Instagram Live Requirements and Eligibility
To go live on Instagram, you need a public business account. Instagram Live is available for older users 13 years and over. Key features include the ability to accommodate up to 3 people, record showsand access to spectator analysis. Users do not need a minimum number of followers to go live on Instagram. To be eligible to go live, users must comply with Instagram’s community guidelines and partner monetization policies.
Account Requirements to Go Live on Instagram
- Public Business Account: move to one Professional account (Business or Creator) to access Instagram Live features
- Age requirement: Users must be at least 13 years old use Instagram, including Live functionality
- No minimum followers: Instagram Live is available regardless of the number of followers you need to go live on Instagram
- Public profile: Your Instagram account must be configured on publicnot private, to use Live features
- Compliance: Users must follow Instagram community guidelines and partner monetization policies to go live.
How to go live on Instagram
- Open the Instagram app on your mobile device
- Press the “more” button in the upper right corner
- Select “Live” among the options
- Faucet “Go live” start streaming
Main features and limitations of Instagram Live
- Several guests: Host up to 3 guests simultaneously in your live broadcast
- Duration of broadcast: No fixed time limit, but longer sessions (more 15 minutes) tend to attract more viewers
- Interaction with the viewer: Enable comments, questions and reactions from your audience
- Record broadcasts: Option to record your live video for 30 days after the broadcast
- Training mode: Test features and iterate before going live
Best practices for Instagram Live
- Promote in advance: Announce your next live session via stories, posts and other platforms
- Interact with viewers: Reply to comments, answer questions and create interactive content
- Use visual aids: Share images or videos from your library during streaming to enrich the content
- A clear call to action: End your live stream with a specific action for viewers to take
Analytics and performance for Instagram Live
- Number of spectators: Monitor the number of viewers in real time during the broadcast
- Engagement metrics: Instagram Live videos receive 3 times more engagement than classic video content
- User Preferences: 80% of Instagram users prefer to watch live videos rather than read blog content
Benefits of going live on Instagram
To connect with followers in real time, Instagram Live offers real-time audience connection. Instagram Live allows creators to connect with your followers in real timehost interactive events and potentially earn revenue through monetization with Instagram badges. It also provides increased visibility on the platform, thus helping to build a stronger community. Notably, you don’t need a specific number of followers to go live on Instagram, making it accessible to all users.
Main benefits of Instagram Live
Real-time audience engagement
- Direct interaction: Connect with followers in in real time through live comments and reactions, enabling immediate feedback and conversation
- Question and answer sessions: Host live Q&A sessions, instantly answering viewer queries and fostering trust with your audience
- Humanize your brand: Provide behind-the-scenes content and showcase the human side of your business, strengthening connections with subscribers
Monetization Opportunities
- Instagram badges: Eligible creators can earn money directly through the app when viewers purchase badges during live videos for $0.99, $1.99Or $4.99
- Exclusive offers: Promote special offers or giveaways available only to live viewers, encouraging participation and potential sales
- Product demonstrations: Showcase products in real-life situations, potentially generating sales with live shopping features
Increased visibility and reach
- Algorithm improvement: Instagram’s algorithm generally displays live streams at start of story threadmaximizing visibility
- Collaboration Opportunities: Use the Add Friends feature to interview up to three guests simultaneously, expanding your reach beyond your own audience
- FOMO effect: The ephemeral nature of live content creates a sense of urgency, encouraging viewers to connect and engage
Content versatility
- Multiple types of content: Use Instagram Live for product launches, educational workshops, behind-the-scenes tours and more
- Reuse of content: Record and share live videos on your feed, IGTV or extract highlights as separate Insta Story clips to extend the life of the content.
Best practices for successful Instagram Live sessions
Preparation
- Set clear goals: Establish specific goals for each live session, such as reaching new audiences or announcing product launches
- Promote in advance: Use teasers and countdown stickers to generate buzz and maximize viewership
- Technical controls: Take test videos to ensure clear sound, stable camera and good lighting
During the live broadcast on Instagram
- Get actively involved: Thank viewers by name, ask for feedback, and maintain an interactive atmosphere
- Moderate effectively: Be prepared to mute or disable comments as necessary to maintain a positive environment
- Vary the content: Switch between front and rear cameras and add effects to keep content fresh
Post-live actions
- Share and save: Make live video available in your Insta Story for 24 hours and save it for later use on IGTV
- Follow up: Review direct messages and interact with viewers who reached out during the live stream
Potential challenges and solutions
Technical issues
- Connection problems: Make sure you have a stable internet connection before going live
- App updates: Keep your Instagram app up to date to avoid compatibility issues
The Challenges of Content Creation
- Plan engaging content: Prepare a rough structure, key points and interactive segments in advance
- Maintain public interest: Incorporate Q&A rounds, fun facts, and challenges to keep viewers engaged
How to start an Instagram Live broadcast
To start a live stream on Instagram, open the app, tap the “+” icon, select “Live”configure your broadcast details and tap “Go live”. You don’t need a specific number of followers to start a live stream. Ensure a stable internet connection (ideally a download speed of 10 Mbps) and use a good lighting and sound for the best Instagram Live quality.
Equipment and setup for Instagram Live
Internet connection for IG Live
- Stable Internet connection: Aim for one download speed of at least 10 Mbps for smooth, high-quality streaming on Instagram Live
- Wired connection: Use an Ethernet cable for more stable streaming compared to Wi-Fi when starting a live broadcast
- Speed test: Check your download speed on Speedtest.net before going live on Instagram
Device for Instagram Live
- Smartphone or tablet: Use a device with a good camera and the Instagram app installed (iOS or Android) to start a live broadcast
- iPhone 14 Pro Max: Offers highest quality video recording and improved low-light capture for IG Live
- iPad Pro 12.9: Ideal for live streaming with a larger display compared to smartphones on Instagram Live
Audio for IG Live
- External microphone: Use a 3.5mm or XLR microphone for better audio quality during Instagram Live
- Blue Raspberry or Rode Videomic Me: External microphones recommended for improved sound on IG Live
Lighting for Instagram Live
- Ring light: use a portable option like $69.99 iOgrapher Ring Light for better lighting during IG Live
- Natural lighting: Combine with studio lights to create the desired effect for your Instagram Live broadcast
Stabilization for IG Live
- Tripod: Use a Manfrotto Pixi Evo Tripod for stable photos during Instagram Live
- Gimbal: Consider a DJIOM4 for smooth portable streaming on IG Live
Starting Instagram Live broadcast
- Open the Instagram app on your mobile device
- Tap the “+” icon at the top of the screen
- Select “Live” from the options at the bottom
- Configure your broadcast:
- Add a title (optional)
- Choose privacy settings
- Select filters or effects (if desired)
- Tap “Go Live” to start streaming on Instagram Live
Tips for a successful Instagram Live
- Test before going live: Take a private test to check audio, video, and connection quality for IG Live
- Interact with viewers: Answer comments and questions during the Instagram Live broadcast
- Plan your content: Get a sneak peek of what you’ll be covering on your IG Live
- Promote in advance: Let your followers know when you’ll be live on Instagram
- Use landscape mode: For a wider view, especially for demonstrations or several people during IG Live
- Record your broadcast: Enable the option to save your live video to your camera roll after Instagram Live
Troubleshooting Instagram Live
- In case of lag: close unnecessary apps, restart your device or switch to another internet connection for smoother IG Live.
- In case of poor video quality: make sure you have good lighting and a stable internet connection during Instagram Live
- If the audio is not clear: Use an external microphone and check for obstructions during your IG Live broadcast.
Instagram Live Swipe Up Feature
- The swipe up feature is available for accounts with more than 10,000 followers or verified accounts
- You can use this feature to add links to your Instagram Live broadcast, improving viewer engagement.
Remember, no matter how many followers you have, you can start a live stream on Instagram and enjoy the benefits of IG Live to connect with your audience.
FAQs
What are the minimum follower requirements for Instagram Live?
There is no minimum follower requirement for Instagram Live. Any user with a public business account can go live, regardless of their follower count.
How can I make money from Instagram Live?
You can make money on Instagram Live through Instagram Badges, where viewers can purchase badges during your live videos for $0.99, $1.99, or $4.99. Additionally, you can promote products or exclusive offers during your live streams.
Is there a difference between Instagram Live and IGTV?
Yes, there is a difference. Instagram Live is for real-time, interactive broadcasts, while IGTV is for longer-form, pre-recorded video content that can be viewed at any time.
Why can’t I go live on Instagram?
If you’re unable to go live on Instagram, make sure you have a public business account, are at least 13 years old, and follow the Instagram community guidelines. Also check your internet connection and app version.
Do I need 10,000 followers to use the swipe up feature in Instagram Stories?
The swipe up feature in Instagram Stories is available for accounts with more than 10,000 followers or verified accounts. However, this feature is separate from the Instagram Live feature.