This Is How to Record and Stream DJ Sets
Filming DJ sets is no longer just a niche hobby; it’s become a key way for DJs to reach new audiences and showcase their skills. Whether you’re streaming on Twitch, uploading to YouTube, or sharing clips on Instagram, a well-filmed DJ set can help you build your brand, connect with fans, and even attract gig opportunities. In a world where visual content reigns supreme, being able to present your set with polished audio and eye-catching visuals is a game-changer. But let’s face it—filming a DJ set isn’t without its challenges. From figuring out the right equipment to syncing audio and video seamlessly, there are plenty of hurdles to overcome. That’s why this guide is here: to break down the essentials, simplify the technical stuff, and set you up for success. Whether you’re starting with a basic setup or looking to level up your production quality, we’ve got you covered.
This Is How to Record and Stream DJ Sets
Essential Equipment
Setting Up for Success
Filming Your Set
Post-Production Essentials
Disclosure: This blog contains affiliate links, which means Internet Tattoo may receive a commission if you purchase through these links at no additional cost to you.
1. Essential Equipment
Cameras
Your camera is the heart of your setup, so picking the right one depends on your budget and needs. For those just starting out, smartphones are surprisingly effective, especially modern ones with advanced video capabilities like 4K recording.
If you’re ready to upgrade, consider a DSLR or mirrorless camera like the Canon EOS R50 or the Sony ZV-1 II. These cameras deliver sharper images, better depth of field, and excellent low-light performance—perfect for moody DJ setups. They are also great for creating Tiktok videos and Reels, so they’re a good investment.
For multi-camera angles, mix a higher-end camera for your main shot with a smartphone or action camera like a GoPro Hero for secondary angles.
Don’t overthink this though. Image quality is important, but a DJ set is really about the music selection, the energy and the sound quality. Don’t wait until you have a fancy camera to get started, your phone is really all you need to succeed.
Audio Setup
Your DJ skills deserve to be heard in full clarity, which means relying on more than your camera’s built-in microphone.
If you’re mixing with your laptop and a DJ controller, it’s probably ideal to record within your DJ software. If that’s not an option, you can also use a screen capture software like OBS Studio, a powerful free app.
If you’re DJ-ing with hardware, like CDJs, turntables and/or a mixer, you can connect your output to your recording setup using an audio interface like the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 or the Audient ID4. If you prefer to run the audio separately, you can also simply use a recorder like the Zoom H4n and sync your set to the video in your editing software of choice.
If you’re live streaming, OBS Studio can route your audio directly from your controller while syncing it with your video feed. Don’t forget to test your levels—nothing kills a vibe like distorted or uneven audio.
Lighting
Great lighting can transform your video from amateur to professional. Start with what you have. You probably have different lamps and flashlights lying around the house, it’s time to get creative and frankenstein-monster them into a crazy light rig.
At some point, you’ll probably want to upgrade and buy affordable options like ring lights or LED panels, which provide even lighting and are easy to adjust. For a more dynamic look, add decorative lights and luminous knick-knacks to create colorful backdrops or accent your DJ gear.
As a reminder, pay attention to shadows and make sure your face and hands are well-lit; viewers want to see your expressions and techniques as much as hear your beats.
Tripods and Mounts
Nobody likes a shaky video, so a sturdy tripod is a must. For smartphones, a simple tripod with a phone mount works wonders.
If you’re aiming for dynamic shots and selfies, consider investing in a gimbal stabilizer or adjustable arm mounts to capture overhead views of your gear.
For multi-camera setups, ensure each device has its own secure mounting point to avoid interruptions mid-set.
2. Setting Up for Success
Choosing a Location
Now that you have all the right gear, the next step is picking the right spot to film. If you’re working from home, find a space with a clean, uncluttered backdrop or add some personal touches like LED lights or posters to reflect your vibe. Studios offer a more polished environment but may require additional gear rental. For live events, be sure to scout the venue beforehand and ensure you’ll have space to set up your camera and lighting. The key is finding a location that feels authentic while offering enough room for your setup.
Visual Aesthetics
Creating the right vibe is essential. Lighting plays a massive role—opt for warm tones or programmable RGB lights to set the mood. Adding props or creative decor (e.g., plants, neon signs, or textured backdrops) can give your video personality and visual depth.
If you want to kick things up a notch, using a projector can a pro feel to a basic home setup. Keep in mind, even if the location doesn’t feel original from your point of view, it’s all about how it looks on screen. That’s why, if all else fails a green screen can unlock a whole new world of creativity.
Pay attention to what’s visible in the frame; a well-organized frame shows professionalism and helps keep your audience focused on you and your music.
Camera Angles
Dynamic camera angles bring your DJ set to life. A main wide-angle shot can capture your full setup and movements, while a close-up camera can focus on your hands working the mixer or controller.
For more creativity, use an overhead shot to highlight your gear and transitions. If possible, set up a second camera to capture crowd reactions (if you’re performing live) or side profiles.
Switching between angles during editing keeps viewers engaged and showcases your skills from multiple perspectives.
Test Runs
Before hitting record or going live, do a full test run. Check your camera angles, lighting, and audio levels to ensure everything looks and sounds great.
Testing allows you to troubleshoot any issues and prevents you from discovering problems mid-performance. Record a short segment and review it to spot anything you need to tweak—it’s better to catch mistakes early than redo the entire set later.
3. Filming Your Set
Live Streaming Setup
Live streaming brings an exciting immediacy to your set. Platforms like Twitch, YouTube, and Instagram offer excellent options for reaching your audience in real time. To get started, you’ll need a camera or webcam, an audio interface, and streaming software like OBS Studio or Streamlabs.
Optimize your stream by setting the resolution and bitrate according to your internet speed; 1080p at 60fps is ideal but adjust as needed. Don’t forget to interact with your audience in the chat—it adds a personal touch and keeps viewers engaged.
Recording for Later Uploads
If you’re not streaming live, recording gives you the chance to perfect your set before sharing it. Use a high-quality camera and ensure your audio is being recorded directly from your mixer or controller for the best sound.
Capture multiple angles if possible, and focus on clean transitions in your performance. This method allows for post-production tweaks, like editing out mistakes or enhancing the visuals.
Engaging with Your Audience
When performing from home, it’s easy to start feeling stupid, or to froget there will be people watching you from their home.
Your energy and personality are just as important as your track selection. Whether you’re live streaming or recording, consider adding small touches that show off who you are—talk briefly about the set, introduce standout tracks, or give a shoutout to your audience.
Visual overlays, such as track names or effects, can also make your video more interactive. And don’t forget your body language—enthusiastic movements and confidence go a long way in captivating viewers.
4. Post-Production Essentials
Editing Tools
Whether you’re new to video editing or a seasoned pro, there’s a software option for you. Beginners might find tools like iMovie or DaVinci Resolve (Free Edition) easy to navigate. For more advanced features, try Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro, which offer precise controls for multi-camera editing, color grading, and effects.
It’s also essential for synching your audio with the video if they haven’t been recorded together.
Take the time to trim unnecessary parts, adjust brightness and contrast, and ensure smooth transitions between clips.
Adding Effects and Branding
Branding your video can make it stand out and reinforce your identity as a DJ. Add overlays with your DJ name, social handles, or track info using simple graphic tools like Canva or more advanced ones like After Effects.
Subtle effects like color grading can enhance the mood, while animated transitions can add polish. Just don’t overdo it—your music should always remain the star of the show.
Optimizing for Platforms
If you’re serious about marketing yourself as a DJ, repurposing content and adapting the best moments of your sets for different platform can be a great way to showcase yourself and find your crowd.
Different platforms have unique requirements for video uploads. For YouTube, aim for 16:9 aspect ratio and a resolution of 1080p or higher. Instagram posts may require a square (1:1) or vertical format, while Stories and Reels are optimized for 9:16 vertical.
Pay attention to file size and bitrate; higher settings look better but may take longer to upload. Finally, add an eye-catching thumbnail and a detailed description to boost views and engagement.
And We’re Live…
Filming a DJ set might seem daunting at first, but with the right tools, setup, and approach, it can be an incredibly rewarding process. Whether you’re showcasing your skills on YouTube, streaming live to your fans, or crafting bite-sized clips for Instagram, the effort you put into capturing your set is an investment in your growth as an artist.
Remember, it’s not about having the most expensive gear or the flashiest production. The magic lies in your creativity, the energy of your performance, and how well you connect with your audience. Start with the basics, build up your confidence, and refine your process over time. Every video you make is an opportunity to learn, grow, and reach new fans.
Now it’s your turn to take what you’ve learned and bring your DJ sets to life. Keep spinning, keep creating, and keep shining, and most important of all… Just have fun with it!
Cover credit: Yuvraj Singh
Disclosure: This blog contains affiliate links, which means Internet Tattoo may receive a commission if you purchase through these links at no additional cost to you.