5 Funeral Etiquette Tips for Live Streaming Funeral Services
Live-streaming funeral services became increasingly popular during the lockdown period when the number of mourners who could attend a service in person was restricted by the government. What many people have found since then is that live streaming offers a great deal of convenience regardless of social restrictions. Why? In many cases, it is a matter of being able to allow people to attend a funeral service – in a virtual sense, at least – who would otherwise not be able to come.
For example, family members who live overseas or many miles away in another part of the country might not be able to make it. Equally, people who are infirm or undergoing treatment that prevents travel are now able to feel as though they have taken a much bigger part in the service by following it online rather than missing it completely. That said, there are some issues of funeral etiquette to take into consideration when planning a live-streamed service. Read on to find out more.
Plan Properly For a Live Streamed Funeral
It may go without saying, but not all funeral venues have the facilities or know-how to provide you with a live-streamed funeral service. Make sure you turn to experts in the funeral industry, such as Newrest Funerals, to help you choose a suitable venue with the technological expertise to make the service a success for those present and those watching online. Emphatically, do not try to live stream yourself without permission over a handheld device. This is simply not the right way to proceed. It might also be something you want to mention in the online obituaries so people know they can easily attend.
Watch What You Say
Webcams usually have a built-in microphone that will pick up on the main speaker, perhaps while someone is giving a eulogy or when the officiant is addressing mourners. That said, the venue may have multiple microphones dotted around the place so be careful that anything you say, even under your breath, isn’t being picked up by people listening to the live stream. If you don’t want it to be heard, then don’t say it at all.
Provide a Dignified View of Proceedings
Modern funeral etiquette states that the camera providing the images for the live stream should be placed towards the back of the venue. No one wants a close up of them at a funeral. The images should come across as though they were what someone would see if they were at the back of the room, not the front.
Only Allow Invited Guests to View the Service
Password protection is important when live streaming funeral services. Again, this is a good reason why you ought to choose a venue with the right technical know-how. Even live-streamed funerals are private affairs. A good tip is to provide the password on the order of service which you can either post or email to friends and family who will be watching online.
Ask Remote Mourners to Stay Muted
Although it is unlikely that the funeral service would be disturbed by someone who is simply watching what is going on, the wrong set-up could mean those in attendance hear what remote mourners are saying or doing. Don’t take this risk. Ask those watching online to stay muted throughout. You can always speak to them afterwards.
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