Building the Ultimate Blackmagic F1 Live Stream Studio | Full ATEM Setup Explained

Welcome to "The Last Lap" Set

This section introduces "The Last Lap," a live Formula One watch along show featuring online F1 influencers reacting to each race in real-time.

Background Info and Show Concept

• The Last Lap is produced by Fellow Studios, which produces various productions.

• The decision to create an F1 YouTube channel for watch alongs and live streams was driven by the growing interest in the sport, particularly due to Netflix's "Drive to Survive" series.

• The goal of the show is to creatively use technology, have an impressive set design, and feature the best F1 creators on YouTube.

Designing a Dynamic Set with Technical Features

This section discusses the decision to create a grand set with dynamic elements and advanced graphics instead of a simple YouTube setup.

Reasons for Going Big on Set Design

• The set changes colors based on the status of the race, creating a dynamic visual experience.

• The aim is not just to provide opinions but also to offer viewers all the information and data they would get when watching an F1 race on TV.

• Key data includes tire information, driver gaps, and weather conditions around the track.

Studio Setup - Cameras and Connectivity

This section focuses on the studio setup, specifically discussing camera choices and connectivity options.

Camera Selection - Blackmagic Studio Camera 4K Pro

• Five Blackmagic Studio Camera 4K Pros are used in the studio.

• These cameras were chosen because they can be controlled remotely using software from the gallery. This eliminates the need for manual focusing by camera operators.

• Features like larger screens, tally lights on cameras, and ability to load Lots (presets) onto the cameras were important considerations.

Connectivity - Fiber Optic HDMI Cables

• 20-meter fiber optic HDMI cables are used to connect the cameras to the gallery area.

• Fiber optic HDMI cables were chosen for their ease of use and bi-directional connection capabilities, allowing video transmission and ancillary data (tally lights, camera control, color calibration) between the cameras and the Atem Mini switcher.

Gallery Section - Broadcast Rack Build

This section focuses on the gallery section, specifically discussing the broadcast rack build.

Tips for Building a Rack

• Planning is crucial when building a rack. Consider multiple versions and placements of components like power strips and trays.

• The broadcast rack is at the center of the gallery section and plays a vital role in the operation and broadcasting of "The Last Lap."

The transcript ends abruptly without further information about specific topics or sections.

Overview of the Kit

In this section, the speaker discusses the equipment used for the show and its functionalities.

A10 Mini Extreme ISO

• The A10 Mini Extreme ISO is the main component of the setup.

• It has eight inputs, with five being used for cameras.

• An additional input is created using an Atem Mini Original to connect more devices.

• Inputs 7 and 8 are used for graphics.

Outputs

• One output feeds a multi-view display for the director to switch between cameras.

• Another output feeds the talent monitor on set, allowing them to see what is happening on the live stream.

• The talent monitor can also display live YouTube chat for interactive engagement with viewers.

Importance of A10 Mini Extreme ISO Version

• The A10 Mini Extreme ISO version includes a streaming engine for YouTube streaming.

• It also allows for ISO recordings and DaVinci files, which are useful for post-production editing and clipping sections of the live show.

Hyperdeck Studio HD Plus

This section focuses on the Hyperdeck Studio HD Plus and its role as a playback device.

Playback Device

• The Hyperdeck Studio HD Plus is used solely as a playback device.

• Video files are loaded onto an SD card and controlled through physical buttons or software control.

• It plays opening title sequences, countdowns, and potentially fan or pre-recorded videos in future episodes.

Ultra Studio HD Mini

This section discusses the Ultra Studio HD Mini and its importance in bringing key and fill graphics into the show.

Key Graphics in Last Lap Live Show

• Graphics play a crucial role in conveying race-related information to viewers.

• Live data from races, such as car positions, leaderboard standings, lap data, and weather information, is visualized through graphics.

• The show also incorporates live chat from platforms like YouTube, displayed in custom branded graphics.

Workflow for Graphics

• Singular Live is used to create and run all the graphics, providing an HTML output.

• OBS's Decklink output sends the signal to the Ultra Studio HD Mini.

• The Ultra Studio HD Mini outputs key and fill signals via SDI, which are converted to HDMI using a Blackmagic bi-directional converter.

Summary

The transcript provides an overview of the equipment used in the show, including the A10 Mini Extreme ISO as the main component. It discusses inputs for cameras, additional devices, and graphics. The Hyperdeck Studio HD Plus serves as a playback device for videos, while the Ultra Studio HD Mini brings key and fill graphics into the show. Graphics play a significant role in conveying race-related information and incorporating live chat from viewers.

Overview of Outputs and Audio Routing

In this section, the speaker discusses the various outputs and audio routing capabilities of their setup.

Outputs and Audio Feeds

• The setup includes multiple outputs that can be utilized to feed audio to presenters.

• Apart from microphones, they also have the ability to route sky audio from their race feed.

• They can play back videos with accompanying audio through feeds from the hyperdeck.

• Feeds from computers are used when bringing in remote guests.

• The signal and volume of each feed can be customized to meet specific requirements.

Networking Capabilities

This section focuses on the networking capabilities of the rack setup.

Router, Ethernet Switch, and Wi-Fi

• The rack has its own router, ethernet switch, and Wi-Fi capabilities.

• This is particularly important as the rack may need to travel to different locations.

• Having its own router allows for easy management of IP addresses within the rack.

• It eliminates conflicts with devices at remote locations by managing everything on the network.

Internet Connectivity

• To provide internet access to all devices in the rack, an ethernet cable is connected to a patch panel.

• The patch panel connects to a GL inet router which provides internet connectivity.

• An 8-port NETGEAR switch allows for hardwiring connections if needed.

• The router also has built-in Wi-Fi functionality for locations without existing Wi-Fi access.

• In case there is no internet available at a location, a 3G/4G/5G dongle can be plugged into the router for connectivity.

Equipment Placement and Accessibility

This section highlights how equipment placement was designed for accessibility and ease of use.

A10 Mini Extreme Placement

• The A10 Mini Extreme is strategically placed at the front of the rack for easy access.

• However, it can be challenging to plug devices into its back due to limited space.

USB Cable Solution

• To address the issue of accessing the A10 Mini Extreme's back, a USB cable is connected to its USB port.

• The cable is then routed to a shelf, providing a convenient space for plugging in hard drives for recording purposes.

Mac M1 Mini

• A Mac M1 Mini is placed on the second shelf and is dedicated to running software control for all devices in the rack.

• It runs various software applications such as ATEM software control, Behringer X32 edit, OBS, and Bit Focus Companion.

Patch Panel and Connectivity

This section focuses on the patch panel and connectivity options within the rack setup.

Patch Panel Design

• The patch panel includes HDMI inputs, an ethernet port, and outputs for A10 Mini Extreme.

• On one side are inputs from ATEM Mini Extremes, while on the other side are outputs and additional HDMI inputs.

• The original A10 Mini is also connected to this panel for easy connection of computers or iPads.

Ethernet Port

• The patch panel includes a Cat6 ethernet port that allows easy internet connectivity at different locations.

• Simply plugging an ethernet cable into this port provides internet access to all devices in the rack.

Compact Setup and Control

This section discusses how everything in the setup is controlled via software over the network.

Compact Footprint

• The setup has a small footprint without large audio desks or lighting consoles taking up space.

• Software control over the network allows for a compact setup that is also portable.

Control Devices

• Control of all kit in the rack is achieved using a keyboard, mouse, and stream deck.

• These devices enable efficient control and management of the entire setup.

Camera Focusing Example

This section provides an example of how cameras are focused using the setup.

Camera Focusing Process

• The speaker demonstrates how they focus cameras using their setup.

• They use Bit Focus Companion software to control camera settings remotely.

• By selecting a specific camera, they can adjust focus, zoom, and other parameters as needed.

The summary includes the main sections from the transcript and provides concise information about each topic.

Camera Control and Auto Focus

In this section, the speaker discusses camera control and auto focus capabilities of the setup.

Controlling Camera Focus

• The wide camera (camera 5) is currently out of focus.

• Using the ATM software control, the speaker can go to the camera tab and press the auto focus button to automatically focus the camera.

• Manual control of the lens is also available, allowing adjustments to be made if a talent is slightly out of focus.

Video Playback Control

• The hyperdeck can be controlled over the network using both ATEM software control and Bit Focus Companion running on a Mac.

• Buttons on the stream deck are programmed to control the hyperdeck as well, enabling functions such as play, stop, and restart for video playback.

• The stream deck also allows for cutting between cameras using companion software.

Audio Control

• The X32 mixer can be controlled over the network.

• Fader levels can be adjusted in X32 software on a Mac or directly from buttons on the stream deck.

• Push-to-talk talkback functionality is utilized with TalkBack buttons on the stream deck for communication with talent.

Lighting Control

• All lights in the studio and set are connected via DMX nodes, allowing for centralized control over the network.

• Software running on a Mac enables changes in lighting color and intensity remotely.

• Real-time data from races can trigger changes in set lighting colors to reflect flags or other events during live shows.

Hosting a Live Show Experience

In this section, one of the hosts describes their experience hosting a live show using this setup.

Interactive Show Setup

• The setup includes an impressive set design with multiple cameras and screens for coverage and interaction with viewers through live chat.

• The goal is to make viewers feel like they are part of the show and the conversation.

Feedback on Blackmagic Setup

In this section, feedback is provided regarding the effectiveness of the Blackmagic setup.

Positive Experience with Setup

• The setup has worked well for live content production, including clipping and other tasks.

• The efficiency and time-saving aspects of the setup have led to its replication in other shows offered by the company.

Conclusion

The transcript provides insights into camera control, auto focus capabilities, video playback control, audio control, lighting control, hosting a live show experience, and positive feedback on the Blackmagic setup.