What is needed for vertical format streaming?
In the previous newsletter, we discussed the trend and reasons behind the popularity of vertical format streaming. Many Vtubers have experienced growth by leveraging the advantages of accessibility and a closer sense of proximity, as mentioned in the previous content.
As promised in the previous episode, we would like to provide information on what is needed to engage in vertical format streaming and highlight the differences compared to traditional streaming.
Assets for Vertical Streaming
Modified layout method
In contrast to horizontal streaming, vertical streaming places the utmost importance on the character, occupying more than 70% of the screen. Accordingly, a different layout approach is necessary compared to the natural placement of assets used in previous horizontal streams.
Previously, in horizontal streams, characters were typically positioned in the bottom-left corner, fitting naturally with other assets such as chat boxes, clocks, game screens, decorations, backgrounds, and frames. However, in vertical streaming, characters may extend up to the knee area on the screen, or only the upper body may be depicted, resulting in broadcasts that fill the entire screen.
As a result, with the increasing prevalence of streams that utilize the entire screen, the conventional assets used previously have become challenging to incorporate into vertical streams.
Removal of chat box within the stream screen
In the case of vertical live streams on YouTube, where the chat box is semi-transparently filled at the bottom, there is no longer a need to display the chat box on the screen. Viewers have the option to toggle the chat box on or off based on their personal preference.
This has resulted in a more convenient way for viewers to engage in chat or check reactions during streams compared to the previous approach.
With the removal of the chat box, there has been an increased demand for widgets that react to chat, and assets covering the portion obscured by YouTube's semi-filled chat box now consist of different types of assets compared to before.
Added and Changed assets
Vertical streaming allows users to navigate to different streams through swiping, and with the new YouTube algorithm, there are expectations for increased exposure.
In line with this, even relatively small YouTubers can anticipate a rise in new viewer influx. However, it has become more challenging to convey whose broadcast it is and what the content is about.
As a result, the significance of thumbnails and logos has increased. There is now a greater need to introduce streams in a way that is more memorable and stands out.
Thumbnail
Thumbnails are sometimes created directly, and there are instances where assets are purchased or commissioned for production.
Even for vertical streams, thumbnails are created horizontally, similar to traditional ones, but it is crucial to include a statement indicating that it is designed for vertical streaming. Some creators use a smartphone frame in the thumbnail to make it more easily recognizable as a vertical stream.
It's important to convey through the thumbnail that the content is in a vertical format, and viewers can anticipate watching it on mobile devices. Providing this awareness in advance can be critical.
Logo
In horizontal streaming, logos featuring the individual's characteristics and name have been crucial for easy self-expression. These logos are used in transitions and within the stream screen, and their importance remains significant in vertical streaming.
With the ability to swipe between broadcasts, there has been an increase in situations where viewers are watching a broadcast without sufficient awareness of the content creator. Placing the logo prominently visible encourages viewers to remember and return when they come across the stream again. Moreover, when shared externally through screenshots or other means, the logo helps clearly identify the creator.
Like and Subscribe Prompt Icons
To effectively convert new viewers into regular subscribers through likes and subscriptions, many content creators use icons and prompts. In vertical streaming, with the narrowed stream screen and the changed location of the subscribe and like buttons, guiding and highlighting these actions can further enhance the efficiency of converting viewers into regular subscribers.
Using location-emphasized icons rather than simple prompts can reiterate to new viewers the importance of transitioning into regular subscribers. This method becomes particularly effective in guiding viewers towards these actions.
Frame
Unlike horizontal streaming, vertical streaming currently doesn't have recommended or predefined frames. Consequently, individuals have the flexibility to create an endless variety of new frames that align with their personality and ideas.
By finding or creating frames that match their personality, streamers can tailor the atmosphere of their streams or transition to new styles. Adapting backgrounds to fit the frames for vertical streaming can also aid in conducting themed streams, potentially attracting new viewers.
Vertical assets archive guide
Various creators are sharing and distributing assets through Twitter.
Syncu Lab is collecting an archive to allow you to see and filter through a variety of asset at a glance. The usage may vary depending on each tweet, but we strive to support you in finding and using the assets you need.
If you want more diverse information, please subscribe to the weekly updates from SyncuLetter, where we provide fresh news regularly.
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