Sports Video Has Changed the Game: The Convergence of AV and Broadcast Feb 25′ Newsletter

Hey StreamGeeks,

This month, we’re diving into a topic that’s reshaping how we think about video production: the blurring lines between Audio Visual (AV) and Broadcast technologies. Over the past few months, I have noticed the power of live streaming is being leveraged to grow in-person events. As this happens, niche events like the Lancaster Archery Classic, are starting to draw large in-person and online crowds. It’s a cycle that feeds a modern growth engine… As you engage large online audiences, in-person attendance will grow in turn. This increases the need for on-site audio visuals such as LED walls, broadcast cameras, and commentators. 

The way we capture, analyze, and share sports is evolving, and it’s creating exciting new opportunities for everyone involved. Video is reshaping the sports market specifically in more ways today than ever before.

The Sports Video Revolution

I recently released my new book, “Sports Video: Recording, Analysis, and Live Streaming,” which explores the emerging ways video is reshaping sports. It’s amazing to see how video is impacting sports at all levels. What often begins as a simple live stream to connect families who can’t attend games quickly expands to encompass sophisticated tools used by coaches and athletes. We’re seeing everything from sideline instant replay and advanced analytics to the integration of large-scale display systems for in-venue viewing. This convergence is a perfect example of how AV and broadcast technologies are coming together to enhance the game.

Case in Point: Lancaster Archery Classic

The Lancaster Archery Classic is a prime illustration of this shift. As their live streams gained popularity, attracting an audience of over 6,000 online viewers and 3,000 in-person attendees, they needed to enhance their production to meet the growing demands. Over the past 8 years, the event has grown significantly, attracting athletes from around the world. If you watch their content, you will see that they have invented a new form of head-to-head competition, which is incredibly fast paced and engaging for online viewers. The broadcast team has combine, multiple cameras, instant replay, and thoughtful design, to create a new spectator experience that is drawing large audiences, and new customers to the sport.

They started with a small broadcast set up, and then expanded to include:

• Large LED walls: for in-person viewing, enhancing fan engagement.
• LCD confidence monitors: providing real-time feedback for athletes.
• Exciting lighting and in-person atmosphere elements.
• A large red “12” button, archers can press when they risk the difficult to hit “Bullseye”.
• PTZOptics Cameras: used to zoom into targets and leverage their multiple video outputs (HDMI for monitors, SDI for broadcast mixing).

This event went from a small in-person competition to a fully realized broadcast with in-person AV support, showing a great example of AV and broadcast convergence. The team combined traditional broadcast technology used to produce the event with common AV equipment. It truly demonstrates how the two are becoming one.

My Experience with the Studio 4K

My experiences of live streaming hockey using the PTZOptics Studio 4K camera perfectly highlight how far this technology has come. The camera’s 4K60 recording capabilities and 1080p60 NDI output allow for seamless live streaming and high-quality post-production. It’s a powerful tool that simplifies production while delivering top-notch results. When you get a chance to see the quality of the Studio 4K, it’s going to show stopper. We are hearing more and more that our 4K cameras are being used even for 1080p productions because the 4K sensor looks sharper. Check out the behind-the-net angle we tested out for hockey. The quality is so sharp, and the 4K60 video footage allowed the team creative freedom while creating highlight reels for the players. I am using Studio 4K to capture live game footage, and then I’m using that footage to create highlight reels with slow-motion replay.

We have been asked to record our local Hockey All-Star game in a couple of weeks. So, be on the lookout for some more test footage and creative ideas on how to live stream hockey. Note: If you are permanently mounting these cameras in hockey rinks, consider an enclosure with a fan to keep the moisture levels at the recommended operating levels.

The PTZOptics Studio 4K: A Key Player

The Studio 4K offers:

• Versatile Output: Stream live in 1080p60 while simultaneously recording in 4K60.
• 12X and 20X Optical Zoom: Allowing for creative zooms and framing without losing quality.
• Seamless integration: With systems like vMix, NDI, Blackmagic, and Atomos recorders.
• Crystal Clear Footage: Ensuring your production looks professional and sharp.

This camera is a great solution for these emerging applications in sports video, bridging the gap between typical broadcast and AV needs. It’s an important piece of technology that has allowed teams of all sizes to be creative in new ways.

The Future is Now

The convergence of AV and Broadcast is no longer a far-off concept; it’s happening now, and it’s revolutionizing the sports video industry. We will continue to see more innovation in this field, and I’m very excited to see what the future holds.

Ready to Dive In?

To help you get started, my new book, “Sports Video,” is available for FREE download for a limited time. Download it now to learn more and level up your sports video production game!

👉 Download your FREE copy here: https://ptzoptics.com/sports

I hope you enjoy this month’s newsletter and find it helpful for your video productions!

Best Regards,

Paul Richards
StreamGeeks