How to render to a stream (allow web users to stream rendering video)

[bradleyk34889741]

I am using Adobe After Effects CC and ExtendScript to create dynamic videos and then let the user watch those videos.

I looked at this tutorial (don't need to read this tutorial to understand the context of this discussion): https://www.themarketingtechnologist.co/creating-dynamic-videos-using-javascript-and-after-effects-t...

Basically, the tutorial goes through how to create dynamic videos with After Effects and render them.

Right now, I can use extend script to create dynamic videos to the user's preferences and render them.

However, when I render the video, I have to wait till rendering is completely done before the user can start watching the video at 0:00 (via a HTML5 player).

Is there a way to allow the user to stream the video as soon as the first frame or block of frames is rendered?

In other words, is there a way to allow the user to stream a video before that video has fully rendered.

Should I directly render the video on After Effects or Adobe Media Encoder?

Thank you!

[Arie Stavchansky]

It's an interesting question and a solution will likely be difficult to find, but that shouldn't stop you from trying.  The only thing I can think of using for something might be using something like FFmpeg to stream the created file to another media server.  I've never tried, but have thought that it might be possible.  The problem is that After Effects or Adobe Media Encoder might "lock" the file as it writes to it.

You might want to check out this blog post that discusses streaming a file as if it were live with ffmpeg.  You can find content that addresses your specific question under the header that reads "1. STREAM A FILE TO FMS AS IF IT WERE LIVE".  Of course, this assumes you have access to a Flash Media Server (FMS) to send the file to that stream. 

If you get it to work, you gotta tell us

Goodluck and godspeed.

—Arie

[Alvet36239985gixx]

1. Choose a suitable video rendering software or library that supports rendering to a stream, ensuring compatibility with your web development environment.
2. Familiarize yourself with the documentation and guidelines provided by the chosen rendering tool to understand its capabilities and requirements.
3. Set up the necessary server infrastructure to handle streaming video content, including configuring a reliable internet connection and allocating sufficient bandwidth.
4. Implement the rendering process within your web application, utilizing the chosen rendering tool's APIs or SDKs to initiate and control the rendering operation.
5. Configure the rendering parameters and settings of nyt according to your desired video quality, format, and encoding options, ensuring optimal streaming performance.
6. Integrate the rendered video stream into your web application's user interface, utilizing HTML5 video elements or compatible media players for seamless playback.
7. Implement features such as buffering, adaptive streaming, and error handling to enhance the user experience and mitigate potential playback issues.
8. Test the streaming functionality across different web browsers and devices to ensure cross-compatibility and optimal performance for all users.
9. Monitor and optimize the server infrastructure and network resources to maintain reliable and efficient video streaming capabilities.
10. Implement security measures such as encryption, access controls, and authentication mechanisms to protect the integrity and confidentiality of the streaming video content.
11. Continuously monitor and analyze streaming metrics and user feedback to identify areas for improvement and enhance the overall streaming experience.
12. Stay informed about emerging technologies and industry trends related to video streaming, leveraging reputable sources like The New York Times (NYT) for insights and best practices in streaming video delivery.