How to Create a Starting Soon Screen for Your Stream

Creating a Starting Soon screen for your stream sets the stage for a professional and engaging broadcast. This guide walks you through the steps to design and implement a screen that grabs attention and builds anticipation. Let’s break it down.

Why You Need a Starting Soon Screen for Streaming

A Starting Soon screen keeps viewers engaged while you prepare your stream. It acts as a placeholder, shares key details, and reflects your brand. Here’s why it matters:

• Builds Anticipation: Gives viewers something to look at while waiting.
• Branding Opportunity: Showcases your logo, colors, or social media.
• Professional Touch: Signals a polished streaming setup.

Ready to design one? Follow these steps.

Step-by-Step Guide to Create a Starting Soon Screen

Step 1: Plan Your Starting Soon Screen Design

Think about what your screen should communicate. Include:

• Text: “Starting Soon,” your stream title, or a schedule.
• Visuals: A background image or animation that fits your theme.
• Branding: Your logo, channel name, or social media handles.

Keep the design clean to avoid overwhelming viewers. For inspiration, check templates on NerdOrDie.

Step 2: Choose the Right Tools

Pick tools that match your skill level and budget:

• Graphic Design:
  • Free: Canva or Photopea for static designs.
  • Paid: Adobe Photoshop or After Effects for animations.
• Streaming Software: OBS Studio, Yostream, or Streamlabs Desktop to display the screen.
• Templates: Find pre-made designs on OWN3D.

These tools make it easy to create a professional screen.

Step 3: Design Your Starting Soon Screen

Here’s how to build your screen:

1. Set Dimensions: Use 1920x1080 pixels for standard streaming resolution.
2. Create a Background: Choose a simple image or gradient. Avoid busy visuals.
3. Add Text: Use bold, clear fonts for “Starting Soon” and other details.
4. Incorporate Branding: Add your logo or social media icons.
5. Optional Timer: Add a countdown timer using Canva or an OBS plugin.

Save as a PNG/JPG for static screens or MP4 for animations.

Step 4: Set Up in Streaming Software

To display your screen:

1. Open OBS Studio or Streamlabs Desktop.
2. Create a new scene called “Starting Soon.”
3. Add an Image Source (for static) or Media Source (for animations).
4. Select your saved file and adjust its size.
5. Add background music if desired.

Step 5: Test and Launch

Run a test stream to check the screen’s appearance on platforms like Twitch or YouTube. Display it for 5–10 minutes before starting to engage early viewers. Switch to your main scene when ready.

Tips to Make Your Starting Soon Screen Stand Out

• Keep It Simple: Clear text and visuals ensure readability.
• Match Your Brand: Use consistent colors and fonts.
• Engage Viewers: Share your socials or stream schedule.
• Check Contrast: Ensure text stands out against the background.

Next steps: Experiment with animations or timers to add flair.

Ready to Create Your Starting Soon Screen?

Creating a Starting Soon screen for your stream is straightforward with the right tools and plan. Design a screen that reflects your style, set it up in your streaming software, and test it before going live. Start building your screen today to give your audience a professional and engaging experience.