Nowadays, knowing the ins and outs of video production and streaming can make a huge difference whether you’re a content creator, a tech enthusiast, or just a curious viewer. This glossary is intended to help you get familiar with the essential terms and technologies that shape global streaming, video production, and digital media.
We’ve explained each concept in straightforward terms to make it easier for you to see how things work behind the scenes for global streaming. Whether you want to improve your content creation skills or just understand what streaming terms mean, this guide will help you confidently keep up with the fast-moving world of digital media.
A
AAC (Advanced Audio Coding): A popular audio compression format that provides high-quality sound at lower bitrates. Widely used for streaming audio in various formats.
Aspect Ratios: The ratio of width to height in a video or image. Common aspect ratios include 16:9 (widescreen), 4:3 (traditional TV), 1:1 (square), and 9:16 (vertical for mobile).
AVI: A multimedia container format developed by Microsoft, known for its high-quality video and audio but often resulting in large file sizes.
B
Bitrate: The amount of data processed per second in a video or audio stream. Higher bitrates generally mean better quality but larger file sizes.
Bandwidth: The maximum rate of data transfer across a network. High bandwidth is important for smooth streaming and high-quality video.
Buffering: The process of preloading data to avoid interruptions during video playback, essential for maintaining a smooth streaming experience.
C
CDN (Content Delivery Network): A network of distributed servers that deliver content to users more efficiently and quickly by reducing latency and load times.
E
Encoder: Software or hardware that converts raw video and audio into a compressed format suitable for streaming or storage.
Encoding: The process of converting video and audio files into a specific format, often involving compression to reduce file size while preserving quality.
F
FLAC: A lossless audio compression format that maintains original sound quality while reducing file size.
FLV: A video file format used for streaming over the internet, known for its efficiency in delivering video content with good compression.
Frame Rate: The number of frames displayed per second in a video. Common frame rates include 24, 30, and 60 fps, influencing the smoothness of motion.
G
GIF: A format for short, looping animations with limited color, commonly used for quick, simple visual content.
H
HEVC (High-Efficiency Video Coding): An advanced video compression standard offering better compression and quality than H.264, suitable for high-definition and 4K video.
H.264 (Advanced Video Coding): A widely used video compression standard known for balancing high-quality output with efficient file sizes.
H.265 (High-Efficiency Video Coding): An advanced video compression standard that offers improved compression efficiency over H.264, allowing for better quality at smaller file sizes.
I
ISO Recording (Isolated Recording): The practice of recording individual video or audio tracks separately for more flexible editing and mixing.
IP Camera: A camera that transmits video data over a network, commonly used for live streaming and surveillance due to its remote access capabilities.
Ingest: The process of importing and preparing media files for editing or streaming, including tasks like transcoding and metadata tagging.
K
Key Frames and Key Frame Interval: Key frames are full images within a video stream. The key frame interval is the time between key frames, affecting compression efficiency and video quality.
M
Multicasting/Multistreaming: Broadcasting a single stream to multiple platforms or audiences simultaneously to increase reach and engagement.
MPEG: A standard for compressing video and audio data, commonly used in digital video and broadcasting applications.
M4A: An audio format that provides better quality than MP3 while reducing file size, often used for compressed audio files.
MKV: A flexible multimedia container format supporting high-quality video and audio, often used for storing and streaming high-definition content.
MOV: A multimedia format developed by Apple for storing video, audio, and text, frequently used for editing and playback.
MP3: A popular audio compression format that balances file size with sound quality, widely used for music and other audio content.
MP4: A versatile multimedia format that efficiently compresses video and audio for streaming and playback, widely supported across devices and platforms.
N
NDI (Network Device Interface): A protocol for sending high-quality video and audio over a network with minimal latency, commonly used in professional video production.
O
OGG: An open-source audio format that offers high-quality sound and supports various codecs, often used for streaming and music.
OPUS: An audio codec designed for high-quality, low-latency communication, particularly suitable for voice applications.
OTT: OTT, or “over-the-top,” refers to the delivery of film and TV content directly through the Internet, bypassing the need for traditional cable or satellite TV subscriptions. Services like Netflix and Hulu are prime examples of OTT platforms, but there are many other options available, offering both free and paid content.
P
Packet and Packet Loss: Packets are small chunks of data transmitted over a network. Packet loss occurs when some packets fail to reach their destination, leading to reduced video quality or interruptions.
Pay-per-view (PPV): A service model where viewers pay to watch individual programs or events, often used for live sports or exclusive content.
Ping: A network diagnostic tool that measures the time it takes for data to travel between two points, indicating network latency and performance.
Podcast: A series of digital audio or video files available for download or streaming, often featuring discussions, interviews, or informational content.
Podcast Marketing: The practice of using podcasts as a marketing tool to engage with audiences and promote products or services.
Pre-Production: The planning phase of video production, including tasks like scriptwriting, scheduling, and organizing resources before filming begins.
Pre-Recorded Video: Video content that is filmed and edited before being shared with viewers, as opposed to live streaming.
PTZ Camera: A camera with Pan, Tilt, and Zoom capabilities, allowing remote control to capture various angles and details, often used in live streaming and professional settings.
R
RTMP (Real-Time Messaging Protocol): A protocol used for streaming video, audio, and data over the internet, known for stable connections and handling large data transfers.
Resolution: The amount of detail in a video, defined by the number of pixels. Common resolutions include 360p, 480p, 720p, 1080p, and 4K.
Ring Light: A circular light used to provide even illumination on a subject, reducing shadows and enhancing the appearance in video and photography.
Royalty-Free Music: Music that can be used without ongoing royalty payments, usually involving a one-time fee or license.
RTMP Live Stream: Streaming video using the Real-Time Messaging Protocol, known for its stability and ability to handle large data streams.
RTP (Real-Time Transport Protocol): A protocol for delivering audio and video data over IP networks in real-time, used for live streaming and video conferencing.
RTSP (Real-Time Streaming Protocol): A protocol for controlling streaming media servers and managing multimedia sessions, facilitating the streaming of live content.
Rule of Thirds: A compositional principle in photography and videography where the image is divided into nine equal parts by two horizontal and two vertical lines. Key elements are placed along these lines or their intersections for a balanced and engaging composition.
Run of Show: A detailed schedule outlining the sequence of events in a live broadcast or event, including timing, transitions, and key moments.
S
SRT (Secure Reliable Transport): A protocol designed for delivering high-quality, low-latency video over the internet, with built-in error recovery and security features.
SDI (Serial Digital Interface): A standard for transmitting high-quality video signals over coaxial cables, often used in professional broadcasting and video production.
Screen Recording: Capturing video footage of what is displayed on a device’s screen, often used for creating tutorials or demonstrations.
Screen Sharing: Allowing others to view the content of your screen in real-time, useful for meetings, presentations, and collaborative work.
Screencast: A digital recording of a computer screen, typically including audio narration or text, used for tutorials or presentations.
Simulcast: The simultaneous broadcasting of content across multiple platforms or channels, expanding reach and audience engagement.
Simulive: A blend of live and pre-recorded content where pre-recorded videos are broadcast as if they are live, combining the advantages of both formats.
Soft Lighting: Lighting that diffuses light to minimize harsh shadows and create a flattering, even illumination, often used in video and photography.
Software Encoding: Using software to compress and convert video files into a suitable format for streaming or storage, as opposed to hardware encoding.
Split Screen: A technique where two or more video or image segments are displayed simultaneously on the screen, often used for comparisons or multi-angle views.
SRT Protocol: The Secure Reliable Transport protocol designed for high-quality, low-latency video delivery over the internet, with built-in error recovery and security features.
Standard Definition (SD): A video resolution standard with lower detail compared to HD or UHD, often used in older television systems and broadcasts.
Stream Key: A unique code used to connect your streaming software to a specific streaming platform, ensuring the content is sent to the correct destination.
Stream Overlay: Graphics, text, or other elements added on top of a live stream to provide additional information or enhance visual appeal.
Stream Sniper: A viewer who watches a live stream to gain an advantage by knowing the actions of the streamer’s opponents in real-time.
Streamer: An individual who broadcasts live or recorded content online, often engaging with audiences through platforms like Twitch or YouTube.
Streaming Protocol: Rules and standards governing the transmission of data during streaming, ensuring compatibility and quality.
Streaming Software: Applications that capture, encode, and broadcast video and audio content in real-time, used for live streaming and content creation.
Super Chat: A feature on YouTube that allows viewers to pay to have their messages highlighted during live streams, increasing visibility.
T
TCP (Transmission Control Protocol): A protocol that ensures reliable data transmission over networks by managing error checking and packet order.
Telegram Live: A live streaming feature within the Telegram messaging app, allowing users to broadcast live video to their contacts or groups.
Teleprompter: A device that displays a script or speech text for presenters to read while maintaining eye contact with the audience, enhancing delivery during live or recorded presentations.
Text to Speech: Technology that converts written text into spoken words, often used for accessibility or creating automated voiceovers.
Three-Point Lighting: A lighting setup involving three lights: key light, fill light, and backlight, used to create well-balanced and professional lighting for video production.
Thumbnail: A small, clickable image representing a video or stream, used to attract viewers and provide a preview of the content.
TikTok Live: TikTok’s live streaming feature, allowing users to broadcast live video content to their followers and interact in real-time.
Timecode: A system for labeling specific points in video or audio recordings, useful for editing, synchronization, and referencing.
Transcoding: The process of converting media files from one format to another, often involving re-encoding to ensure compatibility or improve quality.
Tripod: A three-legged stand used to stabilize cameras and other equipment, providing steady shots and reducing motion blur.
TS (Transport Stream): A video and audio file format used for broadcasting and streaming, known for handling data packets efficiently.
Twitch: A live streaming platform focused on video games, but also featuring a variety of content including music, talk shows, and creative streams.
Twitch Affiliate: A Twitch status offering additional monetization options and benefits to streamers with a certain level of engagement and audience.
Twitch Partner: A higher tier on Twitch providing enhanced monetization opportunities and features for top-performing streamers.
U
UGC Content: User-Generated Content created by individuals rather than professional entities, often shared on social media and other platforms.
UGC Creator: An individual who produces and shares content online, often for personal or commercial use, and typically interacts with their audience.
Unboxing Video: A video genre where creators open and review new products, providing viewers with first impressions and detailed analysis.
Upload Speed: The rate at which data is sent from your device to the internet, crucial for smooth video streaming and uploading content.
V
VPN (Virtual Private Network): It’s a technology that creates a secure connection over a public network, like the internet. This allows you to access private networks remotely and securely, often bypassing geographical restrictions or censorship.
VOD (Video on Demand): A service that allows users to watch video content at their convenience, rather than at a scheduled broadcast time.
Video Bitrate: The data rate used to encode video, impacting its quality and file size. Higher bitrates generally result in better quality.
Video Compression: Reducing the file size of a video while maintaining acceptable quality, making it easier to store and transmit.
Video Conferencing: Real-time communication over the internet involving video and audio, used for meetings, collaboration, and virtual events.
Video Copyright: Legal protection for original video content, preventing unauthorized use or distribution.
Video Editing: The process of cutting, arranging, and modifying video footage to produce a final, polished video.
Video Encoder: A tool or software that compresses and converts video into a format suitable for streaming or storage.
Video Encoding: The act of converting raw video files into a compressed format for efficient streaming or storage.
Video Hosting: Services or platforms that store and serve video content, allowing users to upload and share videos online.
Video Input: The source of video data, such as a camera, computer, or media player, used for recording or streaming.
Video Interview: An interview conducted via video, often used for job applications, media features, or remote communication.
Video Looping: Playing a video in a continuous loop, repeating it indefinitely.
Video Marketing: The use of video content to promote and advertise products, services, or brands to engage with audiences.
Video Metadata: Embedded information in a video file that describes its content, such as title, description, and tags.
Video Monetization: Earning revenue from video content through ads, subscriptions, sponsorships, or other methods.
Video Output: The final video file produced after editing, suitable for distribution or playback.
Video Overlay: Visual elements added on top of a video, such as graphics or text, to enhance its appearance or provide additional information.
Video Podcast: A podcast that includes video content, featuring interviews, discussions, or other formats with visual elements.
Video Presentation: A structured video format used to deliver information or narrate a story visually.
Video Production: The entire process of creating video content, from pre-production planning to filming, editing, and post-production.
Video Resolution: The level of detail in a video, defined by pixel count. Common resolutions include 360p, 480p, 720p, 1080p, and 4K.
Video Resume: A video format showcasing a person’s skills and experiences, often used as an alternative to traditional resumes.
Video Script: A written outline of dialogue, actions, and scenes for a video, guiding the production process.
Video SEO: Optimizing video content to improve its visibility and ranking on search engines and video platforms.
Video Streaming: Delivering video content over the internet in real-time, allowing viewers to watch as the content is transmitted.
Video Switcher: A device or software for controlling and switching between multiple video sources during a live broadcast or recording.
Video Transcription: Converting spoken content in a video into written text for accessibility and searchability.
Video Watermark: A visible logo or text added to a video to indicate ownership or prevent unauthorized use.
Videography: The art and technique of capturing moving images on video, including camera operation and production skills.
Virtual Background: A digital image or video used as a backdrop during video calls or live streams, replacing the real background.
Virtual Event: An online event conducted through digital platforms, simulating in-person events with video conferencing and streaming.
Vlog: A video blog where individuals share personal experiences, opinions, or daily activities with their audience.
VOB (File Format): A file format used in DVDs for storing video, audio, and subtitle data.
Voice Over: Recording spoken commentary added to video content for narration or additional information.
W
WebRTC (Web Real-Time Communication): A technology enabling direct, real-time video and audio communication between web browsers and mobile applications without requiring plugins.
WAV (File Format): An uncompressed audio format known for high sound quality but larger file sizes compared to compressed formats.
Webcam: A small camera connected to a computer or device for capturing video, often used for video calls and streaming.
Webcast: Broadcasting live or recorded content over the internet, often used for events, webinars, or presentations.
Webinar: An online seminar or workshop involving live presentations and interactive elements conducted over the Internet.
WebM (File Format): An open multimedia format designed for web video streaming, offering efficient compression and high-quality playback.
WMA (File Format): An audio file format developed by Microsoft for Windows Media Player, known for good compression and sound quality.
WMV (File Format): A video file format developed by Microsoft for Windows Media, offering efficient compression and good quality for streaming and playback.
X
XLR Microphone: A professional-grade microphone with an XLR connector, known for high-quality sound and durability in recording and live sound applications.
Y
YouTube Brand Account: A type of YouTube account used for managing and promoting brands, businesses, or organizations.
YouTube Live: YouTube’s live streaming feature allows users to broadcast live video content to their audience in real-time.
YouTube Studio: YouTube’s platform for managing and analyzing video content, offering tools for editing, monetization, and audience engagement.
3GP: A multimedia file format commonly used for video and audio on mobile phones, offering a balance between quality and file size.
