How to Go Live on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter

Going live for an event, campaign, or just to show off shelter pets can give a big boost to your social media strategy and engagement. Reaching out to the community through live video helps supporters feel more connected to your organization and its lifesaving mission.

Read through the steps, then watch video demonstrations for Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram live to help create the most compelling live content from your shelter or rescue.

In advance of the live on any social media platform: 

• Consider letting your supporters know that you’ll be going live on a certain day and give an estimated time. This allows some flexibility if the live stream doesn’t start right on time. 

• Ensure that you have a strong Wi-Fi connection from the location where you'll be going live. Consider running a test live from your personal account. 

• Prepare talking points in advance. 

• Identify your video orientation in advance (vertical or horizontal), and do not change it midway. 

• Identify a designated recorder and “host” to describe what is happening in the video. Or opt to do a “selfie” style video. 

During the live video: 

• Consider adding a “Donate” button on Facebook and Instagram. 

• Aim for the livestream to last about 10-15 minutes. 

• Begin the video with an introduction of what’s happening and give a few minutes to those still joining. 

• When filming, go nice and slow for the audience and make sure to speak loudly and clearly. 

• Monitor comments coming in to see if there may be any questions you’d like to address. 

Facebook Live

1. Download and log into the Facebook app or Facebook Page Manager app.
2. On the Facebook app, you should see the live button under “Create a post.” On the Facebook Page Manager app, click on Photo/Video, then select “Live Video.” Click the button to pull up your camera.
3. From here, tap the text box to enter a short summary of what’s happening for viewers who may tune in late. Be sure to include relevant hashtags (#AdoptFromHome, #MeowForNow,  #HelpAHorse, for example) too!
4. To include your location, click the map pin icon below the text box. Select or search for your location in the pop-up.
5. By clicking on the wand icon, you’ll find some filter options to try.
6. Finally, if your page is registered as a nonprofit and can accept donations via Facebook, click the “Raise Money” button on the bottom. This will allow you to include a donate button on your livestream!
7. Once you’re ready, click “Start Live Video.” (Note: To shoot a horizontal livestream, rotate your camera before hitting Start!)
8. End the livestream by clicking the red button and be sure to post/keep the video when prompted.

Instagram Live

1. Download and log into the Instagram app.
2. Once you’re logged in, you’ll be directed to your home screen.
3. Just swipe the screen to the right to access your camera.
4. Your camera will automatically be set to “Normal,” displayed on the bottom of the screen. Swipe or click over to “Live” to the left, and you’ll be prompted to start recording. Instagram doesn’t offer video descriptions, so you’ll want to leave a comment with key messaging and “pin” it to the top.
5. If you want to add some animation, you can choose a filter.
6. Finally, if your page is registered as a nonprofit and can accept donations via Facebook, click the Fundraiser button on the middle left of the screen that has a heart next to it, then select your organization. Remember to select this option before starting your live video.
7. When you’re ready, press the record button and start your livestream!
8. End the livestream by clicking “end” in the upper right, then be sure to share the live video as a story.

Twitter Live

1. Download and log into the Twitter app.
2. Click the icon in the top right corner to compose a new tweet.
3. Add a description of your livestream. Be sure to include your hashtags!
4. You should see a ‘Live’ button at the bottom of your text box. If this doesn’t appear as shown in the video, click the photo icon in the bottom of the screen. You should then be prompted with the ‘Live’ button in your photos.
5. Click ‘Go LIVE’!