Is there anything you wish you would have known when you first started vtubing that I didn't mention? Lemme know here, maybe we can save some others from those things! Or if you're a vtuber fan, is there any behind-the-scenes stuff you're curious about?
How difficult it is to find reliable contacts to contract services for! Mainly this would be for things like art or editing or rigging. The number of students offering these services who then flake or "get too busy with school", or have health emergencies, let alone the raw number of scammers is insane. This is a very new industry and it attracts many young talents, many who have little or no professional experience. I've had to write off several hundred dollars worth of services, been scammed out of several hundred dollars, and had many month delays for services that should only take a couple weeks.
How can someone practice to get better at VTubing? Sorry if that’s a bit vague. I am a VTuber on REALITY and even though my view count is pretty low most of the time, I do find it to be a good way to experiment with content I may want to do and being able to interact well with less than 5 viewers. Even 0 viewers, I’m able to keep talking now instead sitting in silence for hours. It has helped me to become motivated to keep trying without the threat of financial debt. I’m curious on what other ways people could practice streaming to smaller audiences and experiment/ how new or upcoming VTubers could gain these skills. And how could they practice other skills needed in there VTuber journey. Sorry again if this is a bit vague, I tried to explain to the best of my ability, but it’s entirely possible that I have missed something.
@@RobertLutece909 yeap, but many new people come to support her. On the first stream there were 127k+ viewers, this is an unattainable result for all nijisanji.
I feel this. Inconsistency is like my whole thing. I'm trying to get better at it, but I feel like I accomplish more when varying things than following a strict schedule.
Im my case consistency is my enemy. I tried to be consistent and I found that I'm not satisfied with my content, because it looked a little lacking a lot of times. Instead I decided invest my time into quality and publish my content when I'm sure it's 100% ready. But I'm a special case, lol.
I like that you covered almost every thinkable cost, a lot of people don't talk about the computer hardware requirements or even extra assets like overlays and alerts/artwork, since a lot of others who make "newbie vtuber" videos often just throw VROID out as the free model option and leave it at that. Incredibly informative, and you speak in such an engaging way that my partner and I have binged your videos (even though some give him art school PTSD).
I'm glad you liked it, dang thanks for the binge watch! But yea, so much of what I got blindsided by when I got vtubing was the cost of everything and how quickly it can add up. Vroid is great, and there are a lot of great free assets out there, but there's costs you can't escape too RIP
Anyway you can easily get in into VTubing with no cost, if you already have an OK computer, a webcam and a mic. Majority of expenses are practically are usual content creation stuff. You don't even need a high spec camera, a lightning setup with several light sources and a prepared room.
And it's for all of these reasons why every content creator always says you should start as a hobbyist for fun before trying to make it into a career. Not everyone is willing to deal with all the crap.
When you numbered all of the "hidden tasks" I really started respecting myself more LMFAO it's a lot!!!! It takes a really long time, especially if you don't have a lot of money to spend
As someone disabled who has even less than the average amount of hours and no access to a 'proper' job, when my PC was actually working and I was able to stream, keeping up the work was really fun! I'm on hiatus atm (due to said broken PC) but it is definitely possible, you just have to hold yourself to lower standards with regards to how much you can do and be realistic! You absolutely can make it and be consistent, just don't expect to be streaming every single day of the week.
I think Ironmouse is a great example of VTubing with a disability or serious illness. It is definitely possible as she has proven and it can help to make friends or feel more connected to people, but it comes at a cost like streaming while medicated or talking about medical stuff which might be uncomfortable.
@@Blex_040 Actually, Ironmouse is the exception, her path to where she is now is rather unique in the world of VTubing. Although her determination and resilience is noteworthy and she has most of the core attributes that any successful VTuber would need to make it professionally, her specific ailments and how they restrict her life actually play well into becoming a VTuber. She has touched on this very fact herself. I actually watched her before her signing with VShojo when they recruited her, back when she had a few hundred watching her stream around 2018. This was before VTubing was a big thing in the west. It would be better to look at Streamers who have conditions that are highly variable, severe, and can manifest suddenly, even within a stream. Those are the disabled VTubers that are most impressive and understandably there are very few and many don't last very long. There is a group "VTubers with Disabilities" by the way.
Honestly really hoping that some parts of the vtubing world slow down and become more relaxed. It feels like since we are still in the early years of vtubing everyone is rushing to do as much as possible and be the best possible when it often isnt realistic. Personal opinion but unique and genuine vtubers are so much more engaging then standard "idol" vtubers, its just that the market leans so much more towards idol vtubers and is oversaturated with them. I do really hope we get to see more unique and interesting vtubers get popular and get the following they deserve. Honestly I think just being genuine, working to get good quality content, and doing the best YOU can is the best.
I actually disagree and think the absolute opposite. As vtuber fan myself since 2019, idol vtubers are actually EXTREMELY rare. Most vtubers, even japanese ones, are either artists/musicians/ streamers but using avatars. Playing a character, acting prim and proper or just even being for all ages is the exception and far from the norm.
"Virtual" youtube has been around since the beginning of youtube. Using an anime specific model and only gaming / streaming is new. There are other types of content you can make while also being Virtual and even if you want an anime style model, you can make other types of content, as long as it is digital, it is easy to make. There are some vtubing video essayist and some that do memes, some that post game play clips instead of streams, some that do art, some that make music, and some do basic react videos
Also for all comments "the norm" vs what's popular are two separate things. There are tons of vtubers that just chat and they have only a couple of views / followers. Some just don't put in enough time /effort or post enough. Youtubing in general is very tough and emotionally/physically taxing bc of how much work it takes
One thing i really like about vtubing is that it plays directly into my interests of animation, 3D modeling, content creation, and video editing. The downside is im afraid if i really start going at it ill lose not only my drive for vtubing but also my drive in the interests i have that are connected to it.
Those are all the reasons I initially got into it! And interestingly enough, one of my next videos directly addresses the way vtubing can turn a hobby into a job in a way that isn't always a good thing, BUT don't let me deter you, I've been doing it for a year and the vast majority of it has been fun (:
On a more optimistic note is that these requirements to be the best are made for the appeal of a MASS audience. In the end, these assets are superficial. The thing is there are so many small creators out there and there are just as many audience members, you can do a lot with very little. Your growth will be very slow, but it'll be organic to a small audience, and that is its own form of success.
Yes, I totally agree with this. My goal is to find a few people who are interested in what I'm doing and have some kind of fun community. I want this to be an extension of my creativity and, ideally, a way to socialize.
I wanna add that DEBUTING IS OPTIONAL!! Honestly, i think even not debuting is better although its practically advertisement so its recommended. If you go to the actual cost (8:28) you might see why some vtubers might choose not to debut.
Debuting thing works only when you have established viewers or someone who will promote you. And it’s generally the same for streaming as well. Being full i]unknown indie, it always better start with videos to at least parallel it with streaming activity
An extremely realistic look at starting out and I greatly appreciate someone getting real, buckling in and just TELLING people straight up how it is! Its an uphill battle at the start but, depending on how much you want/enjoy it, very worth it!
Sometimes hearing the real answer is rough. I appreciate you keeping it real and mentioning things some of the other videos skim over. I feel like if most people heard as an opening pitch that "your options are do everything yourself, throw all the money at it, or some combination of the two, and even then still never get more than 10 viewers" a lot more people would reconsider it being an " easy job". I'm personally lacking in the budget department so I'm prepared to have to work and learn hard. Your videos are a great help, I try to rec yours and Yam's when I can.
RUclips algorithm must be spying on me cause your timing is perfect. My model is slated to be done by Monday so this is good to know. I’m already a vaguely successful streamer and CC with three years of experience so I’m not too concerned about the “being entertaining” “schedule” “networking” and. . . Well pretty much everything you mentioned in the first half of the video to be honest. Still. It’s nice to know I already meet the bare minimum. lmao
Nice video! I'd add to it by saying that one extra thing corpo did that is propagated in the scene is the whole "friend group". So many vtubers come in as puppies and then get scammed, fall into drama, are wounded or just jolted into reality that there is no vtuber community, it's just the content creator scene and most people act friendly. Acting friendly doesn't make anyone your friend and yet so many think it does 💀
I'm not versed in VTubing (or even being a RUclipsr, per se - just as a fan of VTubers), but I'm well-versed in business and logistics, so a lot of this just confirms what I expected from educated guesses. This was a really interesting peek behind the curtain! I really appreciate the candor and intention behind all of this. In those lazy days of considering my next steps in life, I've considered VTubing as a side project, mostly due to my own particular demographic being completely unserved (or at best, underserved to the extreme). However, much of what you've outlined in this video has been precisely what weighed on my mind, and it's good to hear the confirmation as to what level of time commitment it really requires to even get started. Great, really helpful video, and now I'm curious to see what content you've already got out there (unrelated to this). You've gained another set of eyeballs.
Vtubing sounds so stressful, but I see why so many people love it I personally love their designs so much and love staring at them move when rigged beautifully XD
THERE I AM GARY THERE I AM! I was nodding along to this entire video. This is a wonderful place for VTubers to start. Thank you soooo much for putting all this in one big, easy to share video ❤ your editing and voice delivery is becoming top notch Iiji 🎉
I don't think this is a negative video. It's matter of fact, and that in and of itself is very positive. I'm getting into vtubing now, learning VTS, I got an affordable starter model from Azuyani, started learning Prsim, it's a lot to learn and it'll all come at a cost, either time or money. The most expensive things ive gotten so far are a used iPhone for tracking, and a Shure mic, now I'm just spending time putting all the puzzle pieces together. I'd say my only real barrier to just starting is myself. Even in avatar form, it's hard to put yourself out there, especially since I'm trans (MTF, she/her) and I'm not super comfy with my voice yet, not to mention the hate trans creators tend to get. I'm gonna push onward though.
Yep, i think i dont agree with everything, but i think the biggest part is to realize how much you either have to learn yourself OR how dependent you are on other people. To get a finished Vtuber Model+Rigging alone can take insanely long, if you dont find the right people from the start. Tho i dont agree with the prices you mentioned. You can get a solid L2D-model for 500-700 bucks. My personal original "plans" are literally delayed by over half a year at this point, bc of many bad experiences with artists and a model where i had to overhaul the cutting and details myself several times, delaying the rigging (tho im so happy with my rigger - bless her!). I dont want to go over every point you made and give my take on it, because all that is probably something people can talk about for ages, but i think its a very good overview what might(!) come with the "profession" of a streamer/creator/Vtuber. Good job Squiiji! :)
I consider VTubing a hobby but I absolutely agree that it's time consuming. It does feel like a full time job at times, minus consistent payment lol So I do not get when people start streaming expecting to make this their full time job and earning a lot of money from it 'easily'. It's absolutely healthier to look at it as a hobby unless you are at the size where you can actually consider comfortably quitting your full time job. If you're not at that point... don't think of it as a job. It's a very time intensive hobby. And you can't do hobbies without passion.
I don’t think you can emphasize these points enough! I made a pixel art slime and used it as an avatar for streaming and honestly realized I was kinda “meh” on the whole vtubing shtick but I still do like videos and content creation. It also sold me on the idea that committing to the bit is way more important than expensive and flashy assets
Thanks for the advice. Your videos are really helpful for people like me who are playing around with the idea of streaming/V-tubing in the future but have no idea how to get started.
I always say shop around for model artists and don't just go for the big names for your first model if you wanna save money. I payed $250 for a base model from a smaller artist (not rigged so haven't debuted yet) + 80 dollars for an alt outfit for it. I was extremely lucky to find em since my character is not anime inspired, and even more lucky they allowed small payment plans to pay towards the art. It took months to find them because toony artists are pretty rare.
My friend always uses Russians artists for his art commissions due to their currency being down so pays like 1/6th of what an artist where we live would charge
Tbh it's the only reason I could feasibly become a vtuber, I do my own work for every single thing I can and therefore can thankfully afford to pay other to do the things I can't
Thank you for this, I've been screaming this similar message towards the heavens to any friend who was interested in steaming (vtuber and webcam). Letting them know that I 100% support them and want them to know how much work it is and how you have to love streaming and not just the concept of "being popular". Had 3 friends start and stop streaming within 2020 after spending a lot of $$$ on a PC, mic, etc.
This video is SO well done. A lot of this were things I studied and set standards on myself before starting, and it -works-. I know there are places I'm lacking and want to improve on, but like you said, time is SO critical! And for everyone to remember, it's okay to pace yourself, you won't get everything arranged and in the right pace immediately. It takes time to learn where to focus, what your strengths are, and more! Amazing work as always~
Thank you souch for this vid! I've been wondering for a long time what truly went behind vtubing/streaming Like the technical stuff, costs, equipment, etc. Now I have an understanding for what I'm getting into and now I'm just more excited to get started!!
Is amazing that you gathered a lot of the basic knowledge and skills needed for Vtubing. All this research takes a LOT of time and is super nice of you to make it available in a simple, summarized and fun way for people who are started! All of that for FREE Great job here!
not only did this give me a new found respect for indies, it also made me want to actually become a freelance editor to help out small creators even more, guess it's time to put 5 years of editing for no one to use
Sad thing is I knew it all from the start. I sat and analyzed the space before I joined, biggest thing screwing me is family's schedule butting heads with mine, and unfortunately it's just a rough situation loop where vtubing is my only option, which thankfully is something I genuinely wanted for years. I enjoy streaming even with such a low count, and I treasure everyone who shows up, and hopefully I can work myself up to my planned upgrades, to be even better~ I thank you for making this video, confirming I wasn't the only one who thought it was this way precisely~
Bro I love watching your avatar’s hands move, I feel like I’m watching cat paws with the extra ‘finger’ that makes them look like little mittens😭🙏 (sorry if that’s somehow offensive, it’s not meant to be)
Seeing all of Ninjisanji’s Xsoleil gen having hashtags dedicated for 18+ adult art content really made me take a step back and wonder if Vtubing was for me.
I honestly hadn't even realized previous generations DIDN'T have them because I'm so used to indies having 18+ tags, but thankfully you don't have to participate in those parts of vtubing (as an indie) if you don't want to, I certainly stay away from it!
I mean, there's porn of everything. No matter what you do. Even when you specifically tell people not to draw sexual content of you, like in the case of Porcelain doll. They are still gonna do just that
I'd say 18+ as a way to cover your butt if something sussy slips, or a particularly violent game is play or even accidental cursing. You can be wholesome and still be 18+. It is a way of saying you cant guarantee content will always be child friendly.
Thank you for talking about the hardware part! A lot of people don't anticipate how rough streaming, gaming, AND running a model at the same time can be on a computer. Also thank you for mentioning taxes too. I even tell how badly regular taxes stress me out, so I can't imagine how weird VTuber taxes are like.
These videos are always helpful in that I don’t think about a lot of this stuff. I’m definitely gonna use this information when I finish rebranding and make the decision jump over to Twitch or RUclips.
Hi Squiiji, I am a “RUclips video vtuber” who (also officially) started at the same time as you 03/2023. So far the only thing I have spent money on (or needed to upgrade) was the microphone. Other things I already had (lucky) or can live without. Not debuting "properly" is a good idea - find a thing you can talk about for the next 2-5 years and get going. I also think new people need to acquire (cannot pay for this) a thick enough skin. Not just for mean comments but for all the times RUclips says "this video did not perform as well as expected" or stream elements says "you did not have as many viewers as your previous stream". Best of luck to everyone!
yt was like hey do you want some vtuber behind the scene information while ur trying to collect enough melatonin to sleep? I watched whole thing, VERY informative. good job :D
The biggest issue I have observed. People go into vtubing WITHOUT asking more than a handful of the same common questions. I'm not a vtuber (yet) myself but I have over 30 questions I have asked myself already and I haven't even gotten to starting the trek down that path. This video has some great points so, take notes and start asking yourself the questions that have to do with what you note. My first 5 questions (to try and be helpful) 1.) Why do I want to be a vtuber? 2.) What kind of content do I want to have? 3.) What can I afford to do to start? 4.) How many days a week can I realistically expect to be able to put out content? 5.) What does my "vtuber roadmap" look like? (meaning from pre-debut, plan out your needs, goals, and steps until you have a a "map" that takes you from pre-debut, to debut, and into your milestones as a vtuber) Again, these are the first five questions I asked MYSELF when I started considering being a vtuber. Your questions may be totally different, but they should be asked regardless. And don't be afraid to make inquiries with successful vtubers. Even the agency talents can answer some of your questions. 10/10 video btw
I can definitely confirm that it takes money and time. Not to mention setbacks such as when your PC decides to turn into a campfire out of nowhere and you have to spend a bunch of time looking to replace it.
This was a great video and very informative. As someone who very recently went the other direction from "IRL" streaming to Vtubing for personal and private reasons, it was super overwhelming to get started. I love the just get into it mentality though and have been just livestreaming and posting my usual content using my Avatar and while it's too soon to see any kind of impact I am really enjoying the journey.
If there's one thing I feel like adding, it's that this would all qualify for what one would look at if they want to become a Vtuber who is in it to make money or get famous or such. I've recently starting considering myself a "hobbyist" vtuber. And don't get me wrong, I do a LOT of things that many would consider "wrong" when it comes to Vtubing, Streaming, and LPing. And yet I've been doing it for over a decade and am doing it just to have fun and enjoy myself. A relatively light schedule, minimal editing, a model that was fairly affordable to me, no backgrounds or alerts or emotes or even a discord or anything. Hell my "editing" is done on Windows Movie Maker. I have few people showing up to my streams and my RUclips videos have rarely ever broken into triple digits. And yet, I still have fun. And if you want to do it to have fun, it's good to know that THAT IS FINE. You don't NEED all that other stuff. Just enough. Sure, some things you will still need, your hardware requirements section is the main applicable part there. But if you're JUST there to have fun, a lot of those things aren't necessarily required.
Though Im excited for the fact that I have all the skills to create all of my art assets (illustration, motion graphics, animation, etc) the art alone is a Daunting task to undertake as I work on my own model n channel. It will take a LONG time, but luckily I just want to do this as a hobby so I'm free to take as long as I like. I work freelance animation/illustration part time and everything listed here works very similarly. There is SO much behind the scenes that comes with the territory of being able to make art/entertain for a living that new creators aren't aware of and I'm so glad you're giving such real advice. Taxes, social media management, video editing...there is a reason why each of those things can count as a full time career each. Kudos to the indie creators who manage on their own and eventually grow enough to hire others. I just found you recently but I love how grounded your videos are. Keep up the great work!!
This video was so helpful!!! Thank you so much for all of the great advice and commentary on the state of vtubing and what it takes to get started. Looking forward to more great Squiiji uploads 💚💙
i think for starting a model idea, i think vroid is great. so you can try out a basic idea and see how it works togheter. like color palet. hair and skin color. you do not need drawing skils. you can make a basic idea how you want. and have a basic "visualiton" for an artist so they can bring it on the next level, and or make it more unice. it is more easy if you can see it in front of you. and this is the best way if you cant draw
One thing I've been wondering for a while now about Vtubers, is why do all of them end up having a twitchy right eye, and why is it ALWAYS the right eye? XD Also, great video. I did think of becoming a streamer (maybe) for a little bit, simply because I thought Armored Core 6 might need some signal boosting. Glad I didn't need to in the end, I doubt I'd have been a good fit for that. With this said, I feel like the points you touched on also mostly apply to streaming in general. Very informational overall. Thanks for putting it up!
The twitchy eye is because of inconsistent face tracking when turning one's head, in my experience! It is an easy thing to correct, if you know enough to tweak with your model's settings in VTube Studio or what have you (and tie both your blink animations to one eye) but that's one of those little kinds of VTubing expertise that not everyone nails! ....come to think of it, I haven't de-blonked my secondary model yet, I'd better go do that...
I'm only in the initial R&D phase of getting started, and already it's a lot to wrap my head around; it's a good thing I'm the sort of weirdo who actually *likes* large, complex problems he can really sink his teeth into, because I can easily see how someone with a more normal personality might get overwhelmed before even getting off the ground. I really appreciate videos like this, BTW, it helps a lot, so thank you.
This video was an amazing deep dive on how vtubing works, and I'll most certainly re-watch it again I if I ever try streaming. Unfortunately, I'm lacking in the hardware front, not to mention I wish to not overwork myself with college and looking for a job at the same time. I'd love to see a video talking about the positives of vtubing, even if I feel like i know most of them already.
A good video on a welcome topic! There's such a wide variety of aspects to the whole VTubing thing that it's almost difficult to touch on them well. You did a solid job of it! I've been VTubing for almost 3 years now, and I love it... but the newcomers are almost always the same, hoping for the same things (a corp to hire them, fame and adoring fans) and lacking the same knowledge (of entertainment, of technical things, of self-promotion). There are more resources available than ever before, but it STILL comes down to the same novice creator mistakes and misunderstandings that you see in even non-VTubing spaces. It's hard! It's very hard. That doesn't mean it's not worthwhile to try, and I am glad that so many people do at least try and CAN at least try.
I do think the statement of "sit with your vtuber design for a bit before commissioning the model" is amusing in my case. I made 1 iteration of my model and went with it 😂 I have future outfits designed, but the main model came from one sketch I made on a whim and loved
The real hidden statistic many glance over not mentioning it is there are actual consistent days on which more viewers can be Archived then others also 2 months around Christmas and the new year month are the ones that most creators in general take hiatus in because of how much less it pays the creators in general. But that months hiatus is often only done by youtube creators that already have a good following and can afford to take a hiatus. Yes daily streaming/upload would be ideal for gaining a larger viewing, for a hobbist however holding your schedule to the days that have more viewers then others is the main key tool to get a larger audience
A good training to see if u made for vtubing/content creation is if can make a clipping channel for a vtuber u watch. Start create shorts, long form videos(~10min) and clips. Basically treat it as if u are that vtuber.
16:31 I have been streaming since at least 2019 or 2018 I can’t remember but just had my first PNG stream last Friday and it was on Lethal company, I literally downloaded it like an hour before stream and I’m a Console streamer, so to play that on stream for my first official collab with my first PNG was crazy, I even maintained 10+ viewers where I’m used to 1-3 if I’m lucky. So I’m definitely sticking around and will never give up.
This was a pretty insightful video! I’ve been lurking around the vtubing community for about a year now. Last summer, I made my own model and (most) stream overlays. I am currently working on some drawings to use for videos and (maybe) clips, and a little original soundtrack. While I do plan to start vtubing as a hobby in the future, I’m still prepping. I think I’ve got a decent idea for lore, and I have a decent microphone. Consistency will probably be my biggest struggle, but I will find a way to make it happen!
Thanks for this! There’s so much to consider that I had a vague idea I should probably start working on but I never had a solid list. I made my model myself from a screenshot from the video game I talk about on my channel just because I thought it would be fun to use, but I’m so in love with how magical it is to control the character while working on videos or livestreams and even though I know I don’t have what it takes to go pro part of me has kind of wanted to get a real artist and rigger to help me make a model that’s more mine anyway. I’m not doing this to make any money, just wanted to share the game I love that no one else was making content for, so it’s a good reminder I should keep my eye on my real goal, and not go too overboard on such an expensive self indulgent ‘upgrade’ But I also watched some of your videos about character design and critiques and started thinking about ways to adapt my character to be more personal and more interesting anyway. Thanks for sharing your points in a way that even someone with no art skill or knowledge can get some good ideas.
I took notes the entire time lol, I’ve been making a notebook of all your vtubing tips and currently trying to plan all these things 😅I didn’t realize just how much goes into this but I’m so excited! I plan to go live in a year or two because well I don’t have a model or anything else except for my concept and I’m trying to do most things myself for the free haha. Planning to use Vroid for a 3d model! But fr thank you for all of your help! ❤
Amazing video as always. ^^ I actually have a q if I may. I would like to know if you will ever make a video about internet safety regarding vtubers. for example, having a business bank account, using vpn and things like that. I would like to start with vtubing but I dont know where to start because I dont really understand how to protect myself as a (maybe future) vtuber. on the other hand, I understand that vtubers don't talk about it, they have to protect themselves first, yet this kind of video would be really heplful. I understand if you won't talk about it. Have a nice day Squiiji ^^
I'm not a vtuber or a streamer, but most of the OPSEC (Operational Security) comes down to internet etiquette and a healthy amount of common sense. Don't click on links you aren't 100% confident on, hide critical stuff (browser bookmarks, search history, Downloads folder, separate YT accounts for private stuff etc). Don't post anything you don't want to be seen forever. Use blocking, banning and muting. Make your stream rules clear. Think of a VPN as a geofencing/region locking work around. Use Tor if you need anonymity. As for payment methods and company stuff, I am not educated on that front.
Totally plan on doing the soft debut, training arc type of thing. Vtuber trainee! lol Funny thing I didn't even Think of linking to vtubing is singing. I don't know Why cuz I'd always planned to return to vocal training. Thank you for this video cuz it solidified a lot of plans I've made, as well as given me a few ideas of how to proceed.
Love your character, especially the "goopy" mushroom hat and the interactions it has. Though my like of the goopy hat was a 2 steps forwards, 1 step back kind of deal, lol. Not sure if you're interested in a passerby's constructive criticism, if not don't hit "read more," it's nothing big. "Your" fingers probably should have the outline on them, perhaps you like it with that style but I thought you didn't have fingers on the character for a bit because they blended together so much. Partially me being distracted by the hat probably, but for readability it might be something to look into. Either way works, its just something that you can get so used to as an artist that you don't even realise it can be seen differently~💗
Your videos are always enlightening, but this one takes the cake! I was so stressed on having the most top live2d model my hands could make, that I honestly forgot about how everything else also needs my attention. I'm going to test the waters with a quirky pngtuber and have my friends and moots as my audience. I also have to add something: Being a content creator is not easy with how volatile the general audience is nowadays, I hate the term but you really need to have a "thick skin" and learn when to defend yourself or let the drama fizzle out. I can't stress it enough, a lot of vtuber drama could easily be avoidable if streamers would stop listening to ureasonable criticism or take accountability when needed. But I understand why you wouldn't adress it, is the general content creator advice
Like, I already screwed up some of your earlier tips from your other videos, but I'm just gonna go at it as a hobby rather than a full-on job. Have a lot of groundwork to make.
Very good video and incredibly informative, I feel like a lot of people simply don't realize how difficult content creation can actually be and being a vtuber is probably among the most difficult forms of entertainment to do right by yourself let alone the viewers with how much time and effort it takes I'll say tho, seeing the same picrew I use as a png model was kinda trippy lol, I thought about doing the same but have no clue where to start with it 🙃
Lol so what I'm getting is that it's a miracle that I've lasted for 2 years and had any growth cuz i'm barely doing any of that lmaooo To any newbies: if this feels overwhelming and you don't know where to start, that's exactly where you start. Just make a throwaway account, figure out OBS and try streaming. Don't prep a bunch of stuff if you don't even know if you'll like it. See if OBS works with your computer, test connectivity, mic, audio. Then test yourself, how long can you talk to yourself on stream? Practice carrying conversation/narrating a little. Hell, let some of your intrusive thoughts win, bring out your personality. Just practice. And when you're ready, try it as a vtuber. Go as a png and build your way up, viewers love watching their vtuber grow and improve, they love that journey. Also scuff is inevitable, don't rip your hair out if internet craps out or you got muted. It happens even to corporate vtubers its okay and it's part of the charm lol you'll be just fine
I will say this as someone who has been pngtubing for over a year and had to change my character after the first few months, custom PNGs, if you can afford them, are very much your friend if you want to do something a little off the beaten path. I pride myself predominantly in the world and character building as my talents, and being able to show that work first and foremost is a huge boon. Currently working on an outfit redesign which would help better and I have descriptions for backgrounds as well which I need to be turned into art. Easily the first thing people notice when they join my stream is the character I've crafted which is so far off the beaten path, most people can't tell what they are at first glance and that starts the questions going!
LMAO i love how many of these heads ups are things that have already smacked me in the face. you may think this one is negative, but it's so relevant. bookmarked. even tho im making my own model, stingers, and as much etc as possible, i'll be pushing 7k u$d invested before ever going live. it'll probably have been a full year of prep before then too. but get this, i found out i'm mic-shy before committing lmao. didnt quit the day job, just everything else HAHAHAHaaaaaa 6:02 felt that 6:34 smells like a short
I know you said this might be a bleak video but it’s a much needed dose of reality that allows ppl to prepare and save up for a life changing experience. So much goes into streaming as a VTuber that many don’t realize and your organization of the topics was amazing 🫶🫶
As a vtuber yourself, how do you feel about the idea of getting seed money upfront (let's say 5'000$) in exchange for: 10% of all profits on your future videos, OR (if the vtuber career fails) monthly 100$ payments (no interest) to get the money back. Do you think upcoming vtubers would be interested? Because I see it as a good investment for small time investors like me. I mean if the vtuber could reach 50,000 views per video, that would be a return of $20 PER VIDEO for the investor, and I see 50,000 views per video as reasonable goal to achieve (so if the vtuber made 3 videos a week, that would be $60 a week, or $240 a month return on investment. Now it.seems like it's not much, but let's say you spread it out to 10 vtubers and one gets 500,000 views a video, you're talking serious returns on investment.
I've been a faceless streamer for a few months now and have since started work for debuting as a vtuber instead. My broke ass decided to just make everything myself and figure it out. Buuuuut... I've also promised my boyfriend I'd make him a model too. I'm currently designing my initial finished model, which I already had to redo all the parts for only to realize I did it all wrong. And I'm certainly not looking forward to everything else I gotta do. Seriously considering just hiring a rigger 😅 At least we both managed to secure the accounts we wanted on various platforms, so we won't have to worry about that I have done some research into the culture surrounding vtubing and have definitely set some ground rules already. Namely that I'm in a relationship and y'all better deal with it. And while we both sorta play a little bit of a character, we are very much real people behind the avatar and will address important stuff as such. And in our debut streams we will make it very clear that we do not appreciate idol culture rules being applied to us, but that these are our boundaries and you deal with it. We're unapologetically us and if you don't like it, you can leave. My last creative job was immensely taxing on us and the necessity to put on a mask just to put customers at ease, pretending you're someone that you aren't... I hated it. I'm getting a vtuber model because I am insecure about my real face and as an artist it seemed fun. My boyfriend just kinda got dragged down the rabbit hole with me 😂
I started streaming on September, as a way to tackle my social anxiety and fear of the spotlight, and finally got to affiliate last month as a PNGTuber. I know full well I’m as entertaining as watching a muted video of a phonograph, so I might take that advice and, rather than worry about having a model, take some acting lessons and courses on how to be a better performer, and exaggerate my reactions juuuuust a little bit. God knows I can’t afford anything else, hahaha.
i made a model and overlay and stuff a while ago, but i've got no time to actually stream. Hoping to get back to that sometime cause it seems fun. But my interest is definitely as a hobbyist and mostly just to be able to use the art assets i've made. Wishing good luck to everyone who's serious about vtubing since it seems pretty tough out there!
I started Vtubing in April 2023. I started with a PNG and no I have a Vtuber model. Sadly, my set up is terrible. I use a laptop that doesn't even have a GPU! I play games on my Xbox Series X and use an Xbox app to stream it onto the laptop. Sadly, I can't have my Vtuber tracking turned on while I have OBS, VTube Studio, and the Xbox app open. The whole laptop will crash. And I don't have $2,000 on me to get a whole new set up. So I'm just working with what i have now until I can get the money for a new set up. It sucks cuz i know my crappy set up does drive people away. So I'm very thankful for the few I have
this is a fantasic video. you brought up a common misunderstanding about the entertainment industry be it vtubing, film, music, how work/life balance can't really exist at least long term and predictably and are unfortunately one and the same. I've been a VFX artist for 18 years and I've seen it all.
I'm glad you made this video. Lately, it seems like a fair number of people getting in over their heads, when it comes to vtubing. Part of that is, i would argue, that many cultures don't stress the importance of doing proper research into anything they want to do as a living or may come with a sizable mandatory investment. Also there is the whole issue on too much of a focus being made towards how much money they might make, rather than making sure they'll find the line of work satisfactory. Me personally, I would love to try my hand at vtubing. Once I work out my financial situation, which means working around to getting back into work, after being out of job as a result of health issues. I do not want to try doing it as a means to make a living because I already have stuff where I need a stable income and health insurance. There are also some aspects of the current expectations that I'm not comfortable with, namely the parasocial aspects. So I'd be more content to do it as a hobby, if I did decide I actually liked doing it, rather than as a living.
Whyy, why did it take so long someone finally talks about this ahahhaha. I been asking on you tube and trying to bring up the problems on twitter. Where someone twisted my words of how HARD it is to get noticed as an indie or get to vtubing. Yet they say I would make an argument not to support indies. all of these points are sooooooo true, the expectations are huuge and it feels crushing.
Tip for those that read it. you can always start streaming until you get partnered with RUclips (or any other platform) before investing into a Vtuber model, this way you are sure that you will earn the money back over time, and you also get a lot of experience. (this is a logical statement, but is not always the best way of doing so)
This video isn't negative at all, sweetling. It's called reality. It's called practicality. People need to be more pragmatic, because hopes and dreams only get you so far. Thanks for giving all the insight - I'm not planning to become a VTuber per se, but there are a lot of aspects you discussed here that will help me cover my bases for making videos in the future.
I think one of the best methods of getting started is the Shylilly method. I love how she made a model for herself and streamed and once she had a steady audience (who were there for her and her personality) she was able to buy a new updated model for herself and have a debut (months or years, idr sorry lol) after she started.
It's honestly understandable. I knew it was hard in these streets and I wanted to make my mark somehow, but dang I didn't realize how much money it was to do some of these things, but I shall try my best! Thank you!
Is there anything you wish you would have known when you first started vtubing that I didn't mention? Lemme know here, maybe we can save some others from those things!
Or if you're a vtuber fan, is there any behind-the-scenes stuff you're curious about?
How difficult it is to find reliable contacts to contract services for! Mainly this would be for things like art or editing or rigging. The number of students offering these services who then flake or "get too busy with school", or have health emergencies, let alone the raw number of scammers is insane.
This is a very new industry and it attracts many young talents, many who have little or no professional experience. I've had to write off several hundred dollars worth of services, been scammed out of several hundred dollars, and had many month delays for services that should only take a couple weeks.
How can someone practice to get better at VTubing? Sorry if that’s a bit vague.
I am a VTuber on REALITY and even though my view count is pretty low most of the time, I do find it to be a good way to experiment with content I may want to do and being able to interact well with less than 5 viewers. Even 0 viewers, I’m able to keep talking now instead sitting in silence for hours. It has helped me to become motivated to keep trying without the threat of financial debt. I’m curious on what other ways people could practice streaming to smaller audiences and experiment/ how new or upcoming VTubers could gain these skills.
And how could they practice other skills needed in there VTuber journey.
Sorry again if this is a bit vague, I tried to explain to the best of my ability, but it’s entirely possible that I have missed something.
16:50 Most of them graduate becuz of DRAMA 😂😂🤣🤣
PS: But check Dokibird indie vtuber, she's gained 550 thousand subscribers in a week after DRAMA.
@@perfectdark667 She would have got a lot of those anyway as people followed her from Nijisanji.
@@RobertLutece909 yeap, but many new people come to support her. On the first stream there were 127k+ viewers, this is an unattainable result for all nijisanji.
Squiiji: “consistency is key”
Me: *cries in ADHD*
💀
I feel this. Inconsistency is like my whole thing. I'm trying to get better at it, but I feel like I accomplish more when varying things than following a strict schedule.
Pour one out for all the ADHD havers (me I am adhd haver as well)
dude same
I wish I could be consistent Omlll~
Im my case consistency is my enemy.
I tried to be consistent and I found that I'm not satisfied with my content, because it looked a little lacking a lot of times. Instead I decided invest my time into quality and publish my content when I'm sure it's 100% ready. But I'm a special case, lol.
I like that you covered almost every thinkable cost, a lot of people don't talk about the computer hardware requirements or even extra assets like overlays and alerts/artwork, since a lot of others who make "newbie vtuber" videos often just throw VROID out as the free model option and leave it at that. Incredibly informative, and you speak in such an engaging way that my partner and I have binged your videos (even though some give him art school PTSD).
I'm glad you liked it, dang thanks for the binge watch! But yea, so much of what I got blindsided by when I got vtubing was the cost of everything and how quickly it can add up. Vroid is great, and there are a lot of great free assets out there, but there's costs you can't escape too RIP
Anyway you can easily get in into VTubing with no cost, if you already have an OK computer, a webcam and a mic.
Majority of expenses are practically are usual content creation stuff. You don't even need a high spec camera, a lightning setup with several light sources and a prepared room.
And it's for all of these reasons why every content creator always says you should start as a hobbyist for fun before trying to make it into a career. Not everyone is willing to deal with all the crap.
As Ironmouse, my kami oshi, says herself: don't think about a debut or whatever, just start streaming
When you numbered all of the "hidden tasks" I really started respecting myself more LMFAO it's a lot!!!! It takes a really long time, especially if you don't have a lot of money to spend
Yes! Everyone is working so unbelievably hard, you gotta give yourself more credit!
You both work incredibly hard, you both deserve the recognition and self respect for it!
As someone disabled who has even less than the average amount of hours and no access to a 'proper' job, when my PC was actually working and I was able to stream, keeping up the work was really fun! I'm on hiatus atm (due to said broken PC) but it is definitely possible, you just have to hold yourself to lower standards with regards to how much you can do and be realistic! You absolutely can make it and be consistent, just don't expect to be streaming every single day of the week.
same!!!!!
It's not easy to not compare yourself to others. Hope you can get a working PC soon
True, also for everyone who wants to have a career on RUclips you will basically have to grind your way and don’t expect to everything come at you
I think Ironmouse is a great example of VTubing with a disability or serious illness. It is definitely possible as she has proven and it can help to make friends or feel more connected to people, but it comes at a cost like streaming while medicated or talking about medical stuff which might be uncomfortable.
@@Blex_040 Actually, Ironmouse is the exception, her path to where she is now is rather unique in the world of VTubing. Although her determination and resilience is noteworthy and she has most of the core attributes that any successful VTuber would need to make it professionally, her specific ailments and how they restrict her life actually play well into becoming a VTuber. She has touched on this very fact herself. I actually watched her before her signing with VShojo when they recruited her, back when she had a few hundred watching her stream around 2018. This was before VTubing was a big thing in the west. It would be better to look at Streamers who have conditions that are highly variable, severe, and can manifest suddenly, even within a stream. Those are the disabled VTubers that are most impressive and understandably there are very few and many don't last very long. There is a group "VTubers with Disabilities" by the way.
Honestly really hoping that some parts of the vtubing world slow down and become more relaxed. It feels like since we are still in the early years of vtubing everyone is rushing to do as much as possible and be the best possible when it often isnt realistic. Personal opinion but unique and genuine vtubers are so much more engaging then standard "idol" vtubers, its just that the market leans so much more towards idol vtubers and is oversaturated with them.
I do really hope we get to see more unique and interesting vtubers get popular and get the following they deserve.
Honestly I think just being genuine, working to get good quality content, and doing the best YOU can is the best.
Being reliable and realistic is a standout feature now.
So far more videos seem to be popping requesting this
I actually disagree and think the absolute opposite.
As vtuber fan myself since 2019, idol vtubers are actually EXTREMELY rare. Most vtubers, even japanese ones, are either artists/musicians/ streamers but using avatars.
Playing a character, acting prim and proper or just even being for all ages is the exception and far from the norm.
"Virtual" youtube has been around since the beginning of youtube. Using an anime specific model and only gaming / streaming is new. There are other types of content you can make while also being Virtual and even if you want an anime style model, you can make other types of content, as long as it is digital, it is easy to make. There are some vtubing video essayist and some that do memes, some that post game play clips instead of streams, some that do art, some that make music, and some do basic react videos
Also for all comments "the norm" vs what's popular are two separate things. There are tons of vtubers that just chat and they have only a couple of views / followers. Some just don't put in enough time /effort or post enough. Youtubing in general is very tough and emotionally/physically taxing bc of how much work it takes
One thing i really like about vtubing is that it plays directly into my interests of animation, 3D modeling, content creation, and video editing. The downside is im afraid if i really start going at it ill lose not only my drive for vtubing but also my drive in the interests i have that are connected to it.
Those are all the reasons I initially got into it! And interestingly enough, one of my next videos directly addresses the way vtubing can turn a hobby into a job in a way that isn't always a good thing, BUT don't let me deter you, I've been doing it for a year and the vast majority of it has been fun (:
On a more optimistic note is that these requirements to be the best are made for the appeal of a MASS audience. In the end, these assets are superficial. The thing is there are so many small creators out there and there are just as many audience members, you can do a lot with very little. Your growth will be very slow, but it'll be organic to a small audience, and that is its own form of success.
Yes, I totally agree with this. My goal is to find a few people who are interested in what I'm doing and have some kind of fun community. I want this to be an extension of my creativity and, ideally, a way to socialize.
And don’t forget the grinding, even if you are small RUclipsr the grinding never ends
I wanna add that DEBUTING IS OPTIONAL!! Honestly, i think even not debuting is better although its practically advertisement so its recommended. If you go to the actual cost (8:28) you might see why some vtubers might choose not to debut.
Both Ironmouse and GEEGA are examples of vtubers who are a decent size who didn’t do a debut for the first year of being a streamer.
Some people just wants to be part of the community and that’s ok
Debuting thing works only when you have established viewers or someone who will promote you. And it’s generally the same for streaming as well. Being full i]unknown indie, it always better start with videos to at least parallel it with streaming activity
An extremely realistic look at starting out and I greatly appreciate someone getting real, buckling in and just TELLING people straight up how it is! Its an uphill battle at the start but, depending on how much you want/enjoy it, very worth it!
Sometimes hearing the real answer is rough. I appreciate you keeping it real and mentioning things some of the other videos skim over.
I feel like if most people heard as an opening pitch that "your options are do everything yourself, throw all the money at it, or some combination of the two, and even then still never get more than 10 viewers" a lot more people would reconsider it being an " easy job".
I'm personally lacking in the budget department so I'm prepared to have to work and learn hard. Your videos are a great help, I try to rec yours and Yam's when I can.
“consistency is key”
me with depression 🥲
RUclips algorithm must be spying on me cause your timing is perfect. My model is slated to be done by Monday so this is good to know.
I’m already a vaguely successful streamer and CC with three years of experience so I’m not too concerned about the “being entertaining” “schedule” “networking” and. . . Well pretty much everything you mentioned in the first half of the video to be honest.
Still. It’s nice to know I already meet the bare minimum. lmao
happy for you
"consistency is key"
me, a college student: damn
I promise, when i become a vtuber, I'll take note of every single one of your advice videos! You're such a big help and i love you for it
Nice video! I'd add to it by saying that one extra thing corpo did that is propagated in the scene is the whole "friend group". So many vtubers come in as puppies and then get scammed, fall into drama, are wounded or just jolted into reality that there is no vtuber community, it's just the content creator scene and most people act friendly. Acting friendly doesn't make anyone your friend and yet so many think it does 💀
This ☝
yes
DaVinci is free and easy to pick. I recommend anyone that wants to start on editing. DaVinci is the way to go.
I'm not versed in VTubing (or even being a RUclipsr, per se - just as a fan of VTubers), but I'm well-versed in business and logistics, so a lot of this just confirms what I expected from educated guesses. This was a really interesting peek behind the curtain! I really appreciate the candor and intention behind all of this. In those lazy days of considering my next steps in life, I've considered VTubing as a side project, mostly due to my own particular demographic being completely unserved (or at best, underserved to the extreme). However, much of what you've outlined in this video has been precisely what weighed on my mind, and it's good to hear the confirmation as to what level of time commitment it really requires to even get started.
Great, really helpful video, and now I'm curious to see what content you've already got out there (unrelated to this). You've gained another set of eyeballs.
Vtubing sounds so stressful, but I see why so many people love it
I personally love their designs so much and love staring at them move when rigged beautifully XD
THERE I AM GARY THERE I AM!
I was nodding along to this entire video. This is a wonderful place for VTubers to start. Thank you soooo much for putting all this in one big, easy to share video ❤ your editing and voice delivery is becoming top notch Iiji 🎉
Did you make a baby Iiji just for that beginning part?
Yep! I love getting to make silly lil edits hahaha
I don't think this is a negative video. It's matter of fact, and that in and of itself is very positive. I'm getting into vtubing now, learning VTS, I got an affordable starter model from Azuyani, started learning Prsim, it's a lot to learn and it'll all come at a cost, either time or money. The most expensive things ive gotten so far are a used iPhone for tracking, and a Shure mic, now I'm just spending time putting all the puzzle pieces together.
I'd say my only real barrier to just starting is myself. Even in avatar form, it's hard to put yourself out there, especially since I'm trans (MTF, she/her) and I'm not super comfy with my voice yet, not to mention the hate trans creators tend to get. I'm gonna push onward though.
Yep, i think i dont agree with everything, but i think the biggest part is to realize how much you either have to learn yourself OR how dependent you are on other people. To get a finished Vtuber Model+Rigging alone can take insanely long, if you dont find the right people from the start. Tho i dont agree with the prices you mentioned. You can get a solid L2D-model for 500-700 bucks.
My personal original "plans" are literally delayed by over half a year at this point, bc of many bad experiences with artists and a model where i had to overhaul the cutting and details myself several times, delaying the rigging (tho im so happy with my rigger - bless her!).
I dont want to go over every point you made and give my take on it, because all that is probably something people can talk about for ages, but i think its a very good overview what might(!) come with the "profession" of a streamer/creator/Vtuber.
Good job Squiiji! :)
I consider VTubing a hobby but I absolutely agree that it's time consuming. It does feel like a full time job at times, minus consistent payment lol
So I do not get when people start streaming expecting to make this their full time job and earning a lot of money from it 'easily'. It's absolutely healthier to look at it as a hobby unless you are at the size where you can actually consider comfortably quitting your full time job. If you're not at that point... don't think of it as a job. It's a very time intensive hobby. And you can't do hobbies without passion.
I don’t think you can emphasize these points enough! I made a pixel art slime and used it as an avatar for streaming and honestly realized I was kinda “meh” on the whole vtubing shtick but I still do like videos and content creation. It also sold me on the idea that committing to the bit is way more important than expensive and flashy assets
Thanks for the advice. Your videos are really helpful for people like me who are playing around with the idea of streaming/V-tubing in the future but have no idea how to get started.
Aaa I'm glad it's helpful! Good luck with getting started!
2k in one hour this probably is going to be one of the highest views on this channel
I always say shop around for model artists and don't just go for the big names for your first model if you wanna save money. I payed $250 for a base model from a smaller artist (not rigged so haven't debuted yet) + 80 dollars for an alt outfit for it. I was extremely lucky to find em since my character is not anime inspired, and even more lucky they allowed small payment plans to pay towards the art. It took months to find them because toony artists are pretty rare.
My friend always uses Russians artists for his art commissions due to their currency being down so pays like 1/6th of what an artist where we live would charge
it's only now dawned on me that ive saved so much money by making all of my stuff, model, assets and all. being an artist truly an advantage lmao
Tbh it's the only reason I could feasibly become a vtuber, I do my own work for every single thing I can and therefore can thankfully afford to pay other to do the things I can't
Thank you for this, I've been screaming this similar message towards the heavens to any friend who was interested in steaming (vtuber and webcam). Letting them know that I 100% support them and want them to know how much work it is and how you have to love streaming and not just the concept of "being popular". Had 3 friends start and stop streaming within 2020 after spending a lot of $$$ on a PC, mic, etc.
immediately recognised noiseless worlds music
This video is SO well done.
A lot of this were things I studied and set standards on myself before starting, and it -works-.
I know there are places I'm lacking and want to improve on, but like you said, time is SO critical! And for everyone to remember, it's okay to pace yourself, you won't get everything arranged and in the right pace immediately. It takes time to learn where to focus, what your strengths are, and more!
Amazing work as always~
Thank you souch for this vid! I've been wondering for a long time what truly went behind vtubing/streaming
Like the technical stuff, costs, equipment, etc.
Now I have an understanding for what I'm getting into and now I'm just more excited to get started!!
Eyyy good luck! I'm thrilled this made you more excited than it was a deterrent!
Is amazing that you gathered a lot of the basic knowledge and skills needed for Vtubing. All this research takes a LOT of time and is super nice of you to make it available in a simple, summarized and fun way for people who are started! All of that for FREE
Great job here!
not only did this give me a new found respect for indies, it also made me want to actually become a freelance editor to help out small creators even more, guess it's time to put 5 years of editing for no one to use
Sad thing is I knew it all from the start. I sat and analyzed the space before I joined, biggest thing screwing me is family's schedule butting heads with mine, and unfortunately it's just a rough situation loop where vtubing is my only option, which thankfully is something I genuinely wanted for years. I enjoy streaming even with such a low count, and I treasure everyone who shows up, and hopefully I can work myself up to my planned upgrades, to be even better~ I thank you for making this video, confirming I wasn't the only one who thought it was this way precisely~
Bro I love watching your avatar’s hands move, I feel like I’m watching cat paws with the extra ‘finger’ that makes them look like little mittens😭🙏 (sorry if that’s somehow offensive, it’s not meant to be)
Seeing all of Ninjisanji’s Xsoleil gen having hashtags dedicated for 18+ adult art content really made me take a step back and wonder if Vtubing was for me.
I honestly hadn't even realized previous generations DIDN'T have them because I'm so used to indies having 18+ tags, but thankfully you don't have to participate in those parts of vtubing (as an indie) if you don't want to, I certainly stay away from it!
Half of all vtubers nowadays are just thirst traps lmao
@@squiiji3D Holy crap yes, this. I'm just working toward getting started, but that's a sector of things that I'm totally NOT interested in. 🤣
I mean, there's porn of everything. No matter what you do. Even when you specifically tell people not to draw sexual content of you, like in the case of Porcelain doll. They are still gonna do just that
I'd say 18+ as a way to cover your butt if something sussy slips, or a particularly violent game is play or even accidental cursing. You can be wholesome and still be 18+. It is a way of saying you cant guarantee content will always be child friendly.
Thank you for talking about the hardware part! A lot of people don't anticipate how rough streaming, gaming, AND running a model at the same time can be on a computer.
Also thank you for mentioning taxes too. I even tell how badly regular taxes stress me out, so I can't imagine how weird VTuber taxes are like.
These videos are always helpful in that I don’t think about a lot of this stuff. I’m definitely gonna use this information when I finish rebranding and make the decision jump over to Twitch or RUclips.
Hi Squiiji,
I am a “RUclips video vtuber” who (also officially) started at the same time as you 03/2023.
So far the only thing I have spent money on (or needed to upgrade) was the microphone. Other things I already had (lucky) or can live without.
Not debuting "properly" is a good idea - find a thing you can talk about for the next 2-5 years and get going.
I also think new people need to acquire (cannot pay for this) a thick enough skin. Not just for mean comments but for all the times RUclips says "this video did not perform as well as expected" or stream elements says "you did not have as many viewers as your previous stream".
Best of luck to everyone!
yt was like hey do you want some vtuber behind the scene information while ur trying to collect enough melatonin to sleep?
I watched whole thing, VERY informative. good job :D
The biggest issue I have observed. People go into vtubing WITHOUT asking more than a handful of the same common questions. I'm not a vtuber (yet) myself but I have over 30 questions I have asked myself already and I haven't even gotten to starting the trek down that path. This video has some great points so, take notes and start asking yourself the questions that have to do with what you note. My first 5 questions (to try and be helpful) 1.) Why do I want to be a vtuber? 2.) What kind of content do I want to have? 3.) What can I afford to do to start? 4.) How many days a week can I realistically expect to be able to put out content? 5.) What does my "vtuber roadmap" look like? (meaning from pre-debut, plan out your needs, goals, and steps until you have a a "map" that takes you from pre-debut, to debut, and into your milestones as a vtuber) Again, these are the first five questions I asked MYSELF when I started considering being a vtuber. Your questions may be totally different, but they should be asked regardless. And don't be afraid to make inquiries with successful vtubers. Even the agency talents can answer some of your questions. 10/10 video btw
I can definitely confirm that it takes money and time. Not to mention setbacks such as when your PC decides to turn into a campfire out of nowhere and you have to spend a bunch of time looking to replace it.
This was a great video and very informative. As someone who very recently went the other direction from "IRL" streaming to Vtubing for personal and private reasons, it was super overwhelming to get started. I love the just get into it mentality though and have been just livestreaming and posting my usual content using my Avatar and while it's too soon to see any kind of impact I am really enjoying the journey.
If there's one thing I feel like adding, it's that this would all qualify for what one would look at if they want to become a Vtuber who is in it to make money or get famous or such.
I've recently starting considering myself a "hobbyist" vtuber. And don't get me wrong, I do a LOT of things that many would consider "wrong" when it comes to Vtubing, Streaming, and LPing. And yet I've been doing it for over a decade and am doing it just to have fun and enjoy myself.
A relatively light schedule, minimal editing, a model that was fairly affordable to me, no backgrounds or alerts or emotes or even a discord or anything. Hell my "editing" is done on Windows Movie Maker. I have few people showing up to my streams and my RUclips videos have rarely ever broken into triple digits.
And yet, I still have fun. And if you want to do it to have fun, it's good to know that THAT IS FINE. You don't NEED all that other stuff. Just enough.
Sure, some things you will still need, your hardware requirements section is the main applicable part there. But if you're JUST there to have fun, a lot of those things aren't necessarily required.
Though Im excited for the fact that I have all the skills to create all of my art assets (illustration, motion graphics, animation, etc) the art alone is a Daunting task to undertake as I work on my own model n channel. It will take a LONG time, but luckily I just want to do this as a hobby so I'm free to take as long as I like.
I work freelance animation/illustration part time and everything listed here works very similarly. There is SO much behind the scenes that comes with the territory of being able to make art/entertain for a living that new creators aren't aware of and I'm so glad you're giving such real advice. Taxes, social media management, video editing...there is a reason why each of those things can count as a full time career each. Kudos to the indie creators who manage on their own and eventually grow enough to hire others.
I just found you recently but I love how grounded your videos are. Keep up the great work!!
This video was so helpful!!! Thank you so much for all of the great advice and commentary on the state of vtubing and what it takes to get started. Looking forward to more great Squiiji uploads 💚💙
These videos are helping me a lot. Thank you for all of these! I’ve watched all the other ones a few times now just soaking in the information
I just noticed squiji's mushroom holes shrink when they blink, and I can't stop noticing it
i think for starting a model idea, i think vroid is great. so you can try out a basic idea and see how it works togheter. like color palet. hair and skin color. you do not need drawing skils. you can make a basic idea how you want. and have a basic "visualiton" for an artist so they can bring it on the next level, and or make it more unice. it is more easy if you can see it in front of you. and this is the best way if you cant draw
One thing I've been wondering for a while now about Vtubers, is why do all of them end up having a twitchy right eye, and why is it ALWAYS the right eye? XD
Also, great video. I did think of becoming a streamer (maybe) for a little bit, simply because I thought Armored Core 6 might need some signal boosting. Glad I didn't need to in the end, I doubt I'd have been a good fit for that. With this said, I feel like the points you touched on also mostly apply to streaming in general. Very informational overall. Thanks for putting it up!
The twitchy eye is because of inconsistent face tracking when turning one's head, in my experience! It is an easy thing to correct, if you know enough to tweak with your model's settings in VTube Studio or what have you (and tie both your blink animations to one eye) but that's one of those little kinds of VTubing expertise that not everyone nails! ....come to think of it, I haven't de-blonked my secondary model yet, I'd better go do that...
I'm only in the initial R&D phase of getting started, and already it's a lot to wrap my head around; it's a good thing I'm the sort of weirdo who actually *likes* large, complex problems he can really sink his teeth into, because I can easily see how someone with a more normal personality might get overwhelmed before even getting off the ground. I really appreciate videos like this, BTW, it helps a lot, so thank you.
This video was an amazing deep dive on how vtubing works, and I'll most certainly re-watch it again I if I ever try streaming. Unfortunately, I'm lacking in the hardware front, not to mention I wish to not overwork myself with college and looking for a job at the same time.
I'd love to see a video talking about the positives of vtubing, even if I feel like i know most of them already.
Thanks for putting this together. It's nice to see a breakdown of everything that's needed.
A good video on a welcome topic! There's such a wide variety of aspects to the whole VTubing thing that it's almost difficult to touch on them well. You did a solid job of it!
I've been VTubing for almost 3 years now, and I love it... but the newcomers are almost always the same, hoping for the same things (a corp to hire them, fame and adoring fans) and lacking the same knowledge (of entertainment, of technical things, of self-promotion). There are more resources available than ever before, but it STILL comes down to the same novice creator mistakes and misunderstandings that you see in even non-VTubing spaces. It's hard! It's very hard. That doesn't mean it's not worthwhile to try, and I am glad that so many people do at least try and CAN at least try.
I do think the statement of "sit with your vtuber design for a bit before commissioning the model" is amusing in my case. I made 1 iteration of my model and went with it 😂 I have future outfits designed, but the main model came from one sketch I made on a whim and loved
Finding you has been a blessing for me as I learn how to do all of this. Thank you so much.
The real hidden statistic many glance over not mentioning it is there are actual consistent days on which more viewers can be Archived then others also 2 months around Christmas and the new year month are the ones that most creators in general take hiatus in because of how much less it pays the creators in general. But that months hiatus is often only done by youtube creators that already have a good following and can afford to take a hiatus. Yes daily streaming/upload would be ideal for gaining a larger viewing, for a hobbist however holding your schedule to the days that have more viewers then others is the main key tool to get a larger audience
I’m the one who drew the niji mascots! Thank you for this video, the information is really helpful!! 💜
Ah I'm glad you liked it! Your drawing of them is super cute, it makes a great stand in for fans 🧡
Aaa thank you ❤❤@@squiiji3D
5:23. That image in the lower left hand corner looks familiar! Her vids are why the algorithm brought me here. Great content!
A good training to see if u made for vtubing/content creation is if can make a clipping channel for a vtuber u watch.
Start create shorts, long form videos(~10min) and clips. Basically treat it as if u are that vtuber.
16:31 I have been streaming since at least 2019 or 2018 I can’t remember but just had my first PNG stream last Friday and it was on Lethal company, I literally downloaded it like an hour before stream and I’m a Console streamer, so to play that on stream for my first official collab with my first PNG was crazy, I even maintained 10+ viewers where I’m used to 1-3 if I’m lucky. So I’m definitely sticking around and will never give up.
This was a pretty insightful video! I’ve been lurking around the vtubing community for about a year now. Last summer, I made my own model and (most) stream overlays. I am currently working on some drawings to use for videos and (maybe) clips, and a little original soundtrack. While I do plan to start vtubing as a hobby in the future, I’m still prepping. I think I’ve got a decent idea for lore, and I have a decent microphone. Consistency will probably be my biggest struggle, but I will find a way to make it happen!
Thanks for this! There’s so much to consider that I had a vague idea I should probably start working on but I never had a solid list.
I made my model myself from a screenshot from the video game I talk about on my channel just because I thought it would be fun to use, but I’m so in love with how magical it is to control the character while working on videos or livestreams and even though I know I don’t have what it takes to go pro part of me has kind of wanted to get a real artist and rigger to help me make a model that’s more mine anyway.
I’m not doing this to make any money, just wanted to share the game I love that no one else was making content for, so it’s a good reminder I should keep my eye on my real goal, and not go too overboard on such an expensive self indulgent ‘upgrade’
But I also watched some of your videos about character design and critiques and started thinking about ways to adapt my character to be more personal and more interesting anyway. Thanks for sharing your points in a way that even someone with no art skill or knowledge can get some good ideas.
This video has been quiet the motivator and just good information! Thank you for making it
I took notes the entire time lol, I’ve been making a notebook of all your vtubing tips and currently trying to plan all these things 😅I didn’t realize just how much goes into this but I’m so excited! I plan to go live in a year or two because well I don’t have a model or anything else except for my concept and I’m trying to do most things myself for the free haha. Planning to use Vroid for a 3d model! But fr thank you for all of your help! ❤
I am mesmerised by the toad stall cap style hair, amazing. Also excellent video.
Amazing video as always. ^^ I actually have a q if I may. I would like to know if you will ever make a video about internet safety regarding vtubers. for example, having a business bank account, using vpn and things like that. I would like to start with vtubing but I dont know where to start because I dont really understand how to protect myself as a (maybe future) vtuber. on the other hand, I understand that vtubers don't talk about it, they have to protect themselves first, yet this kind of video would be really heplful. I understand if you won't talk about it. Have a nice day Squiiji ^^
I'm not a vtuber or a streamer, but most of the OPSEC (Operational Security) comes down to internet etiquette and a healthy amount of common sense.
Don't click on links you aren't 100% confident on, hide critical stuff (browser bookmarks, search history, Downloads folder, separate YT accounts for private stuff etc).
Don't post anything you don't want to be seen forever.
Use blocking, banning and muting. Make your stream rules clear.
Think of a VPN as a geofencing/region locking work around. Use Tor if you need anonymity.
As for payment methods and company stuff, I am not educated on that front.
ALSO USE A PASSWORD MANAGER AND TWO-FACTOR OR MULTIPLE-FACTOR AUTHENTICATION, PREFERRABLY NOT SMS OR EMAIL!
@@Joromonni Thank you very much for your reply and advice, I will keep that in mind ^^
Totally plan on doing the soft debut, training arc type of thing. Vtuber trainee! lol
Funny thing I didn't even Think of linking to vtubing is singing. I don't know Why cuz I'd always planned to return to vocal training.
Thank you for this video cuz it solidified a lot of plans I've made, as well as given me a few ideas of how to proceed.
Love your character, especially the "goopy" mushroom hat and the interactions it has.
Though my like of the goopy hat was a 2 steps forwards, 1 step back kind of deal, lol.
Not sure if you're interested in a passerby's constructive criticism, if not don't hit "read more," it's nothing big.
"Your" fingers probably should have the outline on them, perhaps you like it with that style but I thought you didn't have fingers on the character for a bit because they blended together so much. Partially me being distracted by the hat probably, but for readability it might be something to look into. Either way works, its just something that you can get so used to as an artist that you don't even realise it can be seen differently~💗
Your videos are always enlightening, but this one takes the cake! I was so stressed on having the most top live2d model my hands could make, that I honestly forgot about how everything else also needs my attention. I'm going to test the waters with a quirky pngtuber and have my friends and moots as my audience.
I also have to add something: Being a content creator is not easy with how volatile the general audience is nowadays, I hate the term but you really need to have a "thick skin" and learn when to defend yourself or let the drama fizzle out. I can't stress it enough, a lot of vtuber drama could easily be avoidable if streamers would stop listening to ureasonable criticism or take accountability when needed. But I understand why you wouldn't adress it, is the general content creator advice
Like, I already screwed up some of your earlier tips from your other videos, but I'm just gonna go at it as a hobby rather than a full-on job.
Have a lot of groundwork to make.
It started as a hobby, but I kinda wanna succeed with it, even if I’m the last one standing if the art slowly dies.
Very good video and incredibly informative, I feel like a lot of people simply don't realize how difficult content creation can actually be and being a vtuber is probably among the most difficult forms of entertainment to do right by yourself let alone the viewers with how much time and effort it takes
I'll say tho, seeing the same picrew I use as a png model was kinda trippy lol, I thought about doing the same but have no clue where to start with it 🙃
As someone who's just dragging together the gear needed, I highly appreciate this video
Lol so what I'm getting is that it's a miracle that I've lasted for 2 years and had any growth cuz i'm barely doing any of that lmaooo To any newbies: if this feels overwhelming and you don't know where to start, that's exactly where you start. Just make a throwaway account, figure out OBS and try streaming. Don't prep a bunch of stuff if you don't even know if you'll like it. See if OBS works with your computer, test connectivity, mic, audio. Then test yourself, how long can you talk to yourself on stream? Practice carrying conversation/narrating a little. Hell, let some of your intrusive thoughts win, bring out your personality. Just practice. And when you're ready, try it as a vtuber. Go as a png and build your way up, viewers love watching their vtuber grow and improve, they love that journey. Also scuff is inevitable, don't rip your hair out if internet craps out or you got muted. It happens even to corporate vtubers its okay and it's part of the charm lol you'll be just fine
I will say this as someone who has been pngtubing for over a year and had to change my character after the first few months, custom PNGs, if you can afford them, are very much your friend if you want to do something a little off the beaten path.
I pride myself predominantly in the world and character building as my talents, and being able to show that work first and foremost is a huge boon. Currently working on an outfit redesign which would help better and I have descriptions for backgrounds as well which I need to be turned into art.
Easily the first thing people notice when they join my stream is the character I've crafted which is so far off the beaten path, most people can't tell what they are at first glance and that starts the questions going!
Very enlightening video, interesting too see in greater detail what goes on behind the scenes
LMAO i love how many of these heads ups are things that have already smacked me in the face. you may think this one is negative, but it's so relevant. bookmarked.
even tho im making my own model, stingers, and as much etc as possible, i'll be pushing 7k u$d invested before ever going live. it'll probably have been a full year of prep before then too. but get this, i found out i'm mic-shy before committing lmao. didnt quit the day job, just everything else HAHAHAHaaaaaa
6:02 felt that
6:34 smells like a short
so random but i love the inkcap inspo in your design djdfhjdfhdf
I know you said this might be a bleak video but it’s a much needed dose of reality that allows ppl to prepare and save up for a life changing experience. So much goes into streaming as a VTuber that many don’t realize and your organization of the topics was amazing 🫶🫶
As a vtuber yourself, how do you feel about the idea of getting seed money upfront (let's say 5'000$) in exchange for: 10% of all profits on your future videos, OR (if the vtuber career fails) monthly 100$ payments (no interest) to get the money back.
Do you think upcoming vtubers would be interested?
Because I see it as a good investment for small time investors like me. I mean if the vtuber could reach 50,000 views per video, that would be a return of $20 PER VIDEO for the investor, and I see 50,000 views per video as reasonable goal to achieve (so if the vtuber made 3 videos a week, that would be $60 a week, or $240 a month return on investment.
Now it.seems like it's not much, but let's say you spread it out to 10 vtubers and one gets 500,000 views a video, you're talking serious returns on investment.
I've been a faceless streamer for a few months now and have since started work for debuting as a vtuber instead. My broke ass decided to just make everything myself and figure it out. Buuuuut... I've also promised my boyfriend I'd make him a model too.
I'm currently designing my initial finished model, which I already had to redo all the parts for only to realize I did it all wrong. And I'm certainly not looking forward to everything else I gotta do. Seriously considering just hiring a rigger 😅
At least we both managed to secure the accounts we wanted on various platforms, so we won't have to worry about that
I have done some research into the culture surrounding vtubing and have definitely set some ground rules already. Namely that I'm in a relationship and y'all better deal with it. And while we both sorta play a little bit of a character, we are very much real people behind the avatar and will address important stuff as such. And in our debut streams we will make it very clear that we do not appreciate idol culture rules being applied to us, but that these are our boundaries and you deal with it. We're unapologetically us and if you don't like it, you can leave.
My last creative job was immensely taxing on us and the necessity to put on a mask just to put customers at ease, pretending you're someone that you aren't... I hated it. I'm getting a vtuber model because I am insecure about my real face and as an artist it seemed fun. My boyfriend just kinda got dragged down the rabbit hole with me 😂
I started streaming on September, as a way to tackle my social anxiety and fear of the spotlight, and finally got to affiliate last month as a PNGTuber. I know full well I’m as entertaining as watching a muted video of a phonograph, so I might take that advice and, rather than worry about having a model, take some acting lessons and courses on how to be a better performer, and exaggerate my reactions juuuuust a little bit. God knows I can’t afford anything else, hahaha.
i made a model and overlay and stuff a while ago, but i've got no time to actually stream. Hoping to get back to that sometime cause it seems fun. But my interest is definitely as a hobbyist and mostly just to be able to use the art assets i've made. Wishing good luck to everyone who's serious about vtubing since it seems pretty tough out there!
I started Vtubing in April 2023. I started with a PNG and no I have a Vtuber model. Sadly, my set up is terrible. I use a laptop that doesn't even have a GPU! I play games on my Xbox Series X and use an Xbox app to stream it onto the laptop. Sadly, I can't have my Vtuber tracking turned on while I have OBS, VTube Studio, and the Xbox app open. The whole laptop will crash. And I don't have $2,000 on me to get a whole new set up. So I'm just working with what i have now until I can get the money for a new set up. It sucks cuz i know my crappy set up does drive people away. So I'm very thankful for the few I have
As an artist this is why it's very easy for me to get started as a vtuber I did my first commission for freind to go as a test run so far so good!
thank you for this video! it is extremely realistic and definitely is something that should be seen by aspiring/current vtubers
this is a fantasic video. you brought up a common misunderstanding about the entertainment industry be it vtubing, film, music, how work/life balance can't really exist at least long term and predictably and are unfortunately one and the same. I've been a VFX artist for 18 years and I've seen it all.
I'm glad you made this video. Lately, it seems like a fair number of people getting in over their heads, when it comes to vtubing. Part of that is, i would argue, that many cultures don't stress the importance of doing proper research into anything they want to do as a living or may come with a sizable mandatory investment. Also there is the whole issue on too much of a focus being made towards how much money they might make, rather than making sure they'll find the line of work satisfactory.
Me personally, I would love to try my hand at vtubing. Once I work out my financial situation, which means working around to getting back into work, after being out of job as a result of health issues. I do not want to try doing it as a means to make a living because I already have stuff where I need a stable income and health insurance. There are also some aspects of the current expectations that I'm not comfortable with, namely the parasocial aspects. So I'd be more content to do it as a hobby, if I did decide I actually liked doing it, rather than as a living.
Whyy, why did it take so long someone finally talks about this ahahhaha. I been asking on you tube and trying to bring up the problems on twitter. Where someone twisted my words of how HARD it is to get noticed as an indie or get to vtubing. Yet they say I would make an argument not to support indies.
all of these points are sooooooo true, the expectations are huuge and it feels crushing.
You know it's a gonna be a good day when Squiji uploads. Squiji manifestation
Tip for those that read it. you can always start streaming until you get partnered with RUclips (or any other platform) before investing into a Vtuber model, this way you are sure that you will earn the money back over time, and you also get a lot of experience. (this is a logical statement, but is not always the best way of doing so)
you could unironically be a vtuber's manager wtf you know so much
Great advice and budgeting breakdown! You had my attention through the whole vid, even when I paused to admire the machine shop b-roll at 2:30. 😆
Two Iiji videos in a (edit two) week! Lets Go!
Two? My last one was two weeks ago?? lmao
@@squiiji3D2 videos in 1 month!
This video isn't negative at all, sweetling. It's called reality. It's called practicality. People need to be more pragmatic, because hopes and dreams only get you so far. Thanks for giving all the insight - I'm not planning to become a VTuber per se, but there are a lot of aspects you discussed here that will help me cover my bases for making videos in the future.
I think one of the best methods of getting started is the Shylilly method. I love how she made a model for herself and streamed and once she had a steady audience (who were there for her and her personality) she was able to buy a new updated model for herself and have a debut (months or years, idr sorry lol) after she started.
It's honestly understandable. I knew it was hard in these streets and I wanted to make my mark somehow, but dang I didn't realize how much money it was to do some of these things, but I shall try my best! Thank you!