Indie VTubers, watch this BEFORE you Debut || The Blank Canvas

All my socials + Discord: yamalbat.carrd.co/
In this video on VTuber Culture, I discuss VTuber Debuts and whether or not the debuts out of Hololive, Nijisanji, Idol, VShojo, and other VTuber agencies can translate to Indie VTuber content.
Timestamps
0:00 What is a debut?
0:41 Intro
1:18 Reason 1
3:18 Reason 2
5:53 Reason 3
7:40 The Awkward Debut TM
7:51 Learn from my mistakes
8:22 Recap
8:47 So what should you do?
Credits: pastebin.com/QJy3NEg5

[@YamAlbat]

If you are interested in any of the programs mentioned in this video here are some links! Veadotube Mini (PNGTuber Program): olmewe.itch.io/veadotube-mini VRoid Studio (3D VTuber creator): vroid.com/en/studio BOOTH (VTuber Model/Assets Marketplace): booth.pm/en vTubie (VTuber Wiki): vtubie.com/ OBS (Recording/Editing Software): obsproject.com/ You can also join my Discord for guidance: discord.gg/J7cQc8f7mt

[@Sycafox]

Thank you for providing this as well. Didn't know about most of them, and along with your words... It really feels like I could just start this month and just have fun while learning. To me, you are an important person in this community for making knowledge and points of view accessible I'd otherwise have to scramble together.

[@4tarobyte]

Hey Yam! Could you please pin your comment? It's a little buried 💜

[@vthorrusevorapon3859]

Thank you, you nailed the subject in my opinion and thank you for your insights

[@BellowDGaming]

thanks for this video, I debuted Feb 14th 2023 before this video was out, seems I hit all the check marks and did well. Even with the ups and downs I'm still here and having fun with my vtuber avatars. Amazing video, thanks for the sources here and subbed.

[@MisterUmbra2kXx]

It never hurts to start small in order to dream big. Mistakes will be made,and there will be moments of scuff as well,but those things could prove to be useful in the long run. And it really does not take an actual genius to figure things out when it comes to the world of VTubers. Start small,dream big. "Stay hungry,stay foolish." And no matter what you choose to be,always be you,and always keep being true to yourself. And who knows? The name that you had made for yourself might be etched into the history books one day. Never,ever lose hope. Keep on living,and keep on going at all costs. *_Your Story,...Isn't Over Yet._* Not by a long shot.

[@modenoatr]

I see so many people stress so much about the start of their journey that they forget about the rest of it

[@YamAlbat]

Agreed. It's supposed to be fun after all!

[@Bam_Bizzler]

Like everything, its about consistency

[@MeNoCallMyself]

I really agree on the third point. Standard Vtuber debuts feel like the ice breakers your teacher makes you do during your first day of school. It's better to show your personality overtime doing streams or other content.

[@YamAlbat]

Yeah! You gotta shake things up!

[@greed-1914]

Even if somebody debuts, they don't need to follow that traditional format. As you said, it can be boring. People will almost immediately forget if you said you watched a certain anime, and it does little to tell them what to expect from the channel.

[@YamAlbat]

Exactly! Thanks for the comment as always Greed!

[@Meowstachio]

The thing about debuts is that it goal-ifies what a creator should do next, even as all these points are valid, vtubers still need goals to work towards instead of just numbers goals. I'd argue that being a vtuber is just a series of constant redebuts to hype up their audience. Debuts are a test of courage if someone truly does want invest in this whole vtubing thing. No one wants to be a forever pre-debut vtuber. Best to just knock it out with low expectations and move on to prepping for long off goal of a redebut.

[@YamAlbat]

I really like this take, and I agree! It is a great way to set goals as a creator. Thank you for sharing your perspective!

[@ThePastryPrince]

@@YamAlbat I like this take as well. I was doing research on the relevance of debuts as I just received my new custom model. I had been designing a character for myself well before I even entered into vtubing so after 6 months It made sense for me to get it because I enjoy streaming. I managed my budget and shopped smart when it came to what I was looking for. In the end I met some wonderful and talented artists and rig artists that I enjoyed working with. After watching this video I don't think I'll be super worried about some big stream debut. I want to invite the ones that got me interested in content creation as well as the viewers and friends that already come in to watch me. If more come in then that would be neat, but I honestly got stuck wondering whether it was super important and this helped. Thank you!

[@JellyGlows]

@@YamAlbatI just jumped in. I’m already an artist but learning digital art and I started learning to rig. I’m 1/3rd done n has been long time. I’m also a business major from college. 😅

[@JellyGlows]

I also enjoy the learning of everything but it is frustrating at points. My older sister grad in art. We work together for everything we are prepping lol. We both used to be a regular gaming streamer for 2-3y.

[@aureliomiguel1777]

another banger video. debuts make sense in the context of corporate vtubers because they already have a large amount of eyes on them, they're introducing themselves to this audience. with smaller indies however, at most it generates hype and catches people's eye, even if they most likely won't stick around. honestly i feel like indies should just. make content first. like any other form of content creator would. a model and name are good for branding, but beyond that you're still Just Some Guy who streams/makes videos/etc like everyone else.

[@YamAlbat]

HUGE AGREE! I hope this video gets some "predebut" indies to start making content and having fun with it instead of pressuring themselves to make this "perfect" debut for themselves

[@yinyangvtubing5028]

That's how we did it. Now after 2 years of streaming we are working on a debut for our community. They journey was fun so far. I'm almost done with the 2D Avatars. People stayed for our real personalities and it's awesome 🫶~Yang

[@aozora-edits]

Great video! Something I've never understood is why so many VTubers spend the hundreds or thousands of dollars on a full Live2D model, BEFORE they've really decided if they really want to be a VTuber in the first place. I think a lot VTubers feel like they have to have that to be considered "legit", but I've seen plenty of PNG and GIF Tubers still be very successful and well-respected. I think VTubers should have a "debut", but it should be a brief-self introduction rather than a full-blown project. Like you said in the video, one of the massive benefits to being indie is freedom and a lack of pressure, so why not have fun with it and learn as you go? The money will come later.

[@YamAlbat]

Thank you for adding your insight! I completely agree!

[@TheMouseKiing]

Do you think a Channel trailer would be better? So you can introduce yourself and show clips of the type of content you will be making??

[@YamAlbat]

A channel trailer would be a wonderful thing too! I wish I thought about that while making this video actually! Great addition, thank you for sharing!

[@aaaah540]

I wanted to do everything just like the Hololive members so I could be just as successful as them. But you’ve convinced me to your side. It’s really relieving to know that I don’t need to prepare a debut and can just go from “aspiring VTuber” to “VTuber” whenever I want. The part at the end where you talked about how not having everything figured out yet is actually a blessing was so beautiful and uplifting, too!

[@YamAlbat]

Thank you for saying so. I too can relate to wanting a hololive-like debut. They are so exciting and fun to participate in as the audience. I wanted that for myself too once upon a time! That being said, I'm glad that i have been able to encourage you to take it easy and start as a VTuber with lower stakes! Good luck out there, VTuber!

[@AndrewS-vu4ji]

Another thing is that if you start out with a polished debut, it will be much harder to actually deliver on that front. If you set the bar too high you might end up not even trying to reach it and give up, and even if you manage to finish something, it will probably not be up to the standards of agency vtubers unless you REALLY know what you're doing.

[@YamAlbat]

VERY VALID POINT! That could be a contributing factor to why viewers drop after your debut too. I fast tracked my own burnout trying to chase hololive quality while also trying to produce hololive quantity as a working college student. I much prefer monthly videos with the occasional low effort stream to fit my lifestyle and personality now!

[@telliusbian]

Honestly the only corporate vtuber debuts I can genuinely say I really loved was Tsukumo Sana and Gavis Bettel's because it seemed the most like what their streams are/were like. And they seemed really comfortable. Sana's goofy personality+fun facts and Bettel's stand up comedian niche. There's plenty of vtubers who I love now that I didn't even watch their debuts because it happened too late at night. And of course indies/regular streamers where I just walk their streams and have a good time edit: I remember Tempus Vanguard saying they were asked to practice their debut for managers like dozens of times but Bettel really didn't want to and just wanted to go in and make jokes and still have them be funny because he hadn't said them so much. I think that really worked to his benefit

[@YamAlbat]

Sana really captured my interest from debut exactly because of that. I became a day 1 sanalite because her vibe was different from the rest of hololive yet also incredibly positive. She will forever be my VTuber “oshi” of sorts. And honestly, HoloTempus just feels very anti-hololive in a sense. The amount of holostars EN that’s just a dude making funny jokes with an anime avatar is incredibly refreshing. I want MORE talents like magni, vesper, and Gavis Bettel in agencies. I much prefer a vtuber who feels like a real person (with the exception of korone, I’ll watch her even though I know she’s more of a cartoon character 🤭).

[@telliusbian]

@@YamAlbat Sana forever

[@balkyrie]

I’m really glad you put this out there. It makes me sad that people think they have to debut, when really that’s more of an idol thing, rather than a streamer thing.

[@YamAlbat]

YES! We have a lot of carryover from the idol culture that hololive brought in, and I don't think a lot of people realize it!

[@misternuggets6604]

Dang, Yam!! You didn't need to kill me by mentioning me!! XD Thank you!!

[@YamAlbat]

But you're my favorite chicken nugget PNG Tuber!

[@mars.mp3]

I can't wait to see your 2.0 model

[@YamAlbat]

Thank you so much! It's coming along nicely!

[@thesammikat]

Thank you for this video! I was stressing about prepping for my “debut” so this was really helpful. I wanted to make content first still, but I think I’ll stop stressing about the debut and just focus on the content. Thank you ❤️

[@YamAlbat]

So glad to hear it helped! I hope you’re able to have fun and get started soon! 💕

[@Vilverna]

you have just lifted mountains of stress off of my desire to start on my own. thank you

[@YamAlbat]

So glad to hear it. Good luck on your VTuber journey!

[@4r5mg]

Love love love your content, your honesty is rly heartwarming and I learned a lot

[@PorcelainGeostructure]

Thank you for the Video This has given me much more insight on what the big deal is about Vtubing and their debut. you have my like

[@nd1680]

Thanks for the help. Glad you got where you feel more natural. Good luck for future projectsand videos.

[@EvangelineSpeite]

This was very very timely and super helpful in terms of sorting thoughts and "planning".

[@BRC_Del]

This ended up being surprisingly reassuring, since I'm only doing this after over a year of practice and preparation, and at as low a cost as possible. Thank you!

[@CaptianRex026]

Hey Yam! Thanks for the fun video and great advise! Even though I’m not considering being a Vtuber, this advice is very applicable to many things. I was able to apply this to something I’m only just starting out in myself. So thanks again! Don’t worry about the “minimal effort” content. For a lot of people, shorter easy content is a lot more convenient to a busy schedule. Myself included. Videos that may simply be highlights of a stream, or an essay topic you wanna talk about are the videos I find myself frequently rewatching because they are fun and easy to take a break and sit down to! I would love to see more content similar to this, and perhaps some of your upcoming streams broken down to fun moments that a busy audience like myself would otherwise miss out on! Keep up the amazing work! Also, love the adventure time quote.❤

[@YamAlbat]

Thank you for the kind words! And yes, that adventure time quote always makes me feel a bit better ☺️💕

[@stckNsde]

eye opener istg 💜wheres your 100K and 900consistent viewers, deserves more exposure

[@zephyrartch]

All great points! I love the uplifting message of the blank canvas toward the end! I can relate to your thoughts on content creation and Vtubing! Personally, I've never had a debut and don't plan to in the future for any redesigns, I'd rather have something for a milestone instead! It's interesting how the type of content you want to make changes the longer you make content. Thanks for sharing!

[@YamAlbat]

Thanks for sharing! I just want to encourage others to start, because they never know where theyll end up in a few months~

[@CallMeTeci]

The thing is... "investments" should always be made to get a solution for a known problem. But if you jut start out, you have no idea about the problems you will have and therefore bad investments will be much more likely at the beginning. And what new creators should invest at the very beginning is simply a fck ton of time to learn the several different jobs that can be part of content creation. Only if you cant fix issues with time and knowledge, a money investment should be made. And here in the first place things you could use, even if you would stop creating at some point (better PC hardware will serve you well even if you dont stream or make videos anymore for example, but a high quality L2D model will be just a waste of money then). :)

[@YamAlbat]

Oh my gosh, super well put! I never thought if it this way but yes… investments are a solution to a known problem… thank you for sharing your perspective!

[@HollyPhoenixEA]

I'm one of the people who gets into the hype of V-tuber debuts but I agree they can be boring, I mostly enjoy the lore part of the debut and the overall culture (I'm not sure if that is the right word) of V-tuber debuts. Thank you for this video as it gives me less stress about considering content creation for a hobby :D

[@YamAlbat]

Of course! I'm glad you found the video useful! I hope you give VTubing as a hobby a try!

[@ArisaShirakawa]

I didn't do a debut. I didn't see the point in it. I knew no one was going to be watching me right away, so i just jumped straight in. I found a free model on booth, a cheap overlay and I'm not gonna be spending money on things that i don't need. My current mic and webcam work fine. I just need to fine tune the details. And that's honestly fine. Spending thousands of dollars on something I don't know if I'm going to stick with and taking months to hype myself up and get a small-ish following for some grand debut that I'm just gonna be anxious about the whole time, isn't my thing.

[@YamAlbat]

That is the very best attitude to have. I hope you find VTubing very fun!

[@chrichri3335]

I literally did the same thing.

[@MOONWOLF7395]

Thank you for the vid. I will def be saving this for when I actually decide to start trying to become a vtuber.

[@YamAlbat]

Heck yeah! Glad you found the video helpful! Good luck with any vtubing adventures you decide to go on!

[@Narufan1129]

Good video. Had a lot of stuff I needed to hear right now. Thank you.

[@YamAlbat]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Xeoie]

Thank you! I was rushing!

[@xANDR3Wx]

Thanks for the video. Great info as always 👍

[@YamAlbat]

Thank you so much!

[@bertiebuttercup]

big agree!! you give really good advice in this and it's made very well

[@YamAlbat]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for your support on the video!

[@UmmayaKu]

I wish I found this video sooner lol! I've pretty much done all of the DON'T'S that you mentioned! I started as an indie vtuber on another channel and tried to jump into vtubing thinking I had to have ALL of the bells and whistles. I put a bunch into a new model, character designs and even a logo only to completely change my mind on pretty much everything, a few months later! I remember freaking out over doing a debut because I didn't have a big audience and still don't. I also hadn't made up my mind on what type of content I was going to be doing! Just as you said, I built up a bit of hype afterwards but it fizzled out shortly after when people I guess realized that I had no intentions of being with an agency, which was a little discouraging. Now, I've decided to just start over and start fresh. I bought a premade model that I feel more comfortable with. I was initially stressing over having to do another debut but I really like the idea of just doing a channel introduction and leaving it at that. Small growth is better than fast as you said, because it gives you a chance to not only figure out your content, but it also gives you time to really connect with your audience! Best of luck to anyone just starting out!

[@lilyshealinggarden5648]

Thank you so much for this.. I love what you're talking about.. this is so cool 😎😎

[@kitty_kitanna]

this was incredibly helpful. wanting to have a debut was holding me back. ill make a little PNG tuber and get started asap! Thank you!!

[@Manjivt]

For the most part I agree with you, I found a free avatar on Booth already, but a friend of mine bought me a cheapo one from Etsy to use, I'm learning how to recolor the avatar to personalize it to make it my own, even if a hundred others use the model, I'll be focusing on Games and "Just Chatting" styles of streams because that is what I enjoy. So while I agree a slow build is best for perhaps every one, a good debut will set you on a path of your choosing "This is who I want to be" so you work to become that. My idea is basic, but fun, I get to learn software that's been out for a while and try something new that I believe I will enjoy, if I find that I don't enjoy it, I'm out only dozens to a hundred hours of effort and maybe $50.

[@MomokoMakiDesu]

Edit: I've been streaming for 2 years and only debuted 6 months ago, because I didn't wanna face the fact that nobody would show up. But yesh, debuts are optional and they're just a fun hype to have within your community, i recommend debuting once you grow more! The only advice i could give anyone who's debuting soon is to not act "professional", but to have fun! Vtubers often focus on their debut but forget that they need to make content after and i was a victim of that thought lawl I'm actually redebuting on my birthday and I'm gonna he watching my first official debut GWHAHAA I wasn't good at content creating at all, i'm still not but I'm definitely better than how i was. I make everything for myself because i prefer to grow more until I actually decide to commish pricier artists for much better assets ect but making your own assets can be very fun too!!

[@YamAlbat]

Thanks for adding to the conversation! Yes, having fun is the most important part. Good luck with the redebut and the CRINGE of watching your debut back. I rewatched my debut on my anniversary and I wanted to crawl out of my own skin 😂 I suppose debuts are good for looking back on years from now, that’s one way they are useful

[@MomokoMakiDesu]

@@YamAlbat Honestly since Twitch deletes vods, i get to save the debut vods to look back on them later, i might find TONS of mistakes in my old one T_T

[@YamAlbat]

Good luck brave soldier! 🌸

[@KuroShiroo]

I do agree with slow growth is better or through some phase before actually big is let you get a good set about your surroundings. Its also being aware if you getting comments on how you can improve.. For short sudden explode also will lead your ego to consume yourself

[@YamAlbat]

Agreed! Thanks for the comment!

[@vampiragoddess]

Thats how I feel, I mean you can do a short introduction at best but unless your a corporate vtuber for indies it really shouldnt be stressful. It makes it easier if your already on the streaming scene than become a vtuber. But it really shouldn't be stressful

[@YamAlbat]

Exactly this!

[@ElizabethMikkelsenCH]

I've been unsure about doing a debut for a while and have honestly thought that I should just start playing games and seeing this video makes me think it would be the right call.

[@JacquemontiaVT]

I really needed to hear this. I created my model 2 years ago but never had the courage to start my VTuber journey because of the pressure of the debuting.

[@YamAlbat]

YOU GOT THIS! I Hope you are able to have fun with it!

[@wuxian1]

a banger as usual, love ur content

[@YamAlbat]

Thank you so much!

[@TheBackLibrary]

Thank you for this. As someone who has been considering getting into content creation, this is exactly the video I needed when I needed it.

[@YamAlbat]

Glad it was helpful!

[@echoesvtuber]

Thanks for creating this video as it pretty much embodies my thoughts on this topic super well! You really don't need a debut when starting out as typically, you don't have any experience and don't know what you want to do. I feel that people can be pressured by other people for debuting, whether it is through corporate influence or if you are big enough, it is expected for whatever reason. In the end, what matters most is working on creating content you enjoy making, and figuring out what you want to do. For my models, I progressed to a Vroid, then PNGTuber, then Chibi Live2D, and then a custom 3D model to eventually find the look and style I wanted to convey in my videos. As you said, content creation is a journey, so its best to not rush it and if possible, save yourself some money before major investments. I also never had a traditional debut and kinda just made a seperate intro video with the info typically found in them rather than a livestream as it is then available if anyone is interested in watching it. You end up knowing what you find easier to do.

[@YamAlbat]

The peer pressure to hold off on making content and go all in on a corporate style debut is super real because “everyone does it.” It’s just not worth it. Slowly upgrading over time like you did is definitely the way to go!

[@echoesvtuber]

@@YamAlbat Exactly! I completely agree. I hope that in general, people will eventually be less swayed by peer pressure and make their best decision instead, but the corpo influence can be overwhelming ngl

[@ThaKingGoatNathaniel]

I love this! Imma indie VTube r just getting started & this helps so much!.

[@YamAlbat]

Wonderful! so glad the video reached you! Good luck on your new vtuber journey!

[@Tori54]

Aaa your new model is so pretty even in png form!

[@YamAlbat]

Aw thank you 💕

[@chrichri3335]

One reason I skipped hyping up a debut (apart from only having a tiny audience) was because I was feeling anxious about the idea of building myself up only to be a nervous wreck my first stream, so I just decided to say "screw it" and throw myself out there.

[@yinyangvtubing5028]

That's what we do when we have new outfits. We don't anounce it. We simply use the during the next stream and people notice them. No pressure just a little surprise.

[@Octuori]

Thank you for this, I was stressing about making things perfect on the first try, but I think I’ll just have fun with it

[@YamAlbat]

Glad to hear it! I hope you have a lot of fun making stuff!

[@mayborneflower]

7 minutes late but I’d be down for more of this shortform essay stuff.

[@Sycafox]

I will remember all of this on my way. Thank you!

[@YamAlbat]

You’re very welcome! Good luck on your content creation journey!

[@hkzero7789]

A very good video as always! 👍

[@YamAlbat]

Thank you!

[@Mp3Dalsten]

Literally debut'd a week ago xD I honestly don't mind having a debut video because it's mostly for my friends who didn't know me that well or paying homage to people who helped me along the way in my life. Honestly, mostly looking at this as a hobby and I have been through the burnout with other ventures. Now I don't care and have fun! Honestly, yeah, it was nerve-wracking but I don't think I regret it since I'm pretty sure I'd act the same way without it. My whole online presence is scuff, but I'm embracing the scuff. I'm not saying that your video doesn't apply to me tho. It's good to hear that most of my choices makes sense because I'm kinda already in the mindset you're saying I should be xD As always, I enjoy your content and I'm hoping to see more.

[@YamAlbat]

Thanks for watching the video anyways! Congrats on making it out of predebut phase! I mostly made this video to encourage the VTubers who are stuck in the “planning” phase to JUST START! Once you’ve started, you’ve made it further than at least half the people who say they’re going to become a vtuber (I have no actual proof, that’s my mental estimate 😂)

[@Roisome]

Totally valuable perspective from someone whose life isn’t constantly on the grind. I don’t mean that negatively, there are alot of advices out there that ignores the chances that you might not be entirely into content creation and it’s nice to see (Yam? Albat?) addressed this. If you’re starting out, test the water before you sink money or sign a contract that you weren’t sure of in the first place

[@YamAlbat]

Yeah, I think the mindset of "hey this is just a hobby and i do this for fun, but i don't want to make the content grind your job" is increasingly lost. Honestly, most of my VTuber friends who actually stick around are the ones who are self made or they have free to use models, because it is just a hobby, and their needs are met with either just using a PNG or making a VRoid model themselves. It's incredibly overlooked because people want to be like their favorite VTuber right away.

[@alfonz9999]

another great vid👍

[@YamAlbat]

Thanks!

[@SvgarFl0wer]

I plan on my "Debut" to be gaming focused with a small bio. Nothing high budget and fancy, and only focusing on things that are actually relevant to my content. I'm keeping the mentality of "If it's causing me stress, cut it out!" So gonna pick a game I know works smoothly and have fun. I've done streaming with other sonas long enough to know the first month of streaming needs to be as stress-free as possible to make up for the inevitable audio, visual, and technical issues that come with starting out. After that, then I start the plans for bigger, more high-end streams (plus by then you usually have at least 1-2 consistent viewers who you know are worth putting that effort into anyways.) My alt is a pngtuber who never debuted (was around before that was even a thing) and does video essays, and it's moderately successful too! Too many people focus on what they think viewers want when they really need to focus on what they want and feel could benefit their character.

[@RemitheDreamfox]

Great video :3

[@YamAlbat]

Thank you!

[@editdotexe]

I think it just comes down to (as mentioned in the video) you don't see what a cooperate Vtuber has done before they debut. A fresh indie Vtuber debuting at the start or even close to the start of them making content is like making a 1 million subscriber special as their first video. It's not something to do until you know you like content and have a concept down, but also not something to be taken too seriously. I remember a video talking about how it's fine to redebut, specially if you decide to change what you are doing and or style of doing it. It's just kind of a tradition of maturing as a Vtuber and saying "This is me, hello" which you can't really do until you know who and what you are.

[@YamAlbat]

Huge agree. It didn’t occur to me back in 2020 that every vtuber debuting with hololive and nijisanji had a “past life” as a content creator already with loads of experience. I wondered why I was so bad at basic streaming stuff compared to them. That kind of stuff isn’t immediately obvious to a beginner, which is why I thought this video topic was very important. I appreciate you contributing to the conversation!

[@moss_moonstone]

The most important thing for my VTubing right now is getting my kid his own TV in his room so he isn't screeching right next to me. I'm still trying to make a debut video so I can have it as a channel preview video. It's costing me nothing but my sanity to do it all myself lol

[@lvl1wizard]

I agree with you. Im so glad you played that Adventure Time clip-its my favorite. I'm still growing as a creator and its a hobby for me as well ❤

[@YamAlbat]

Yeah, i quote that clip pretty much once a month at least ahaha. Thanks for the comment!

[@NousagiCaptain]

great video and smart take, like always.

[@YamAlbat]

Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for the comment!

[@chimchimfire4608]

ur my fav vtuber 💜💜💜

[@YamAlbat]

Aw thank you!

[@doukzu]

this is so real tbh. I have no idea how indie debuts go, but when I imagine my first stream- whenever that'll be- without a prior audience in streaming I just don't imagine many people would show up. so why make a huge deal out of something, possibly make it awkward, and scare away my first few viewers? I may as well just jump into whatever it is I wanna do! Though I could understanding slapping [DEBUT] in the title anyways since it would still be one, if casual and of course that's just an assumption for people who don't stream/make content before starting anything vtuber related

[@vegan_potato]

I 100% agree with everything you say! After doing one test stream without any model or overlay, I started streaming with my (first ever self drawn& rigged) model a few weeks later. Originally I wanted to do a debut stream but I realized HOW much is needed for a full set up (panels, emotes, starting screen, etc.) and the pressure felt so big I simply thought screw this 😂 my model wasn't perfect either so I didn't want to hype anything up that's not perfect anyway. And guess what - it was the best decision I could have made! I was soo awkward the first weeks of streaming, I'm sure my debut would have sucked xD And another point: if you stream on twitch and you're not affiliate yet, there's a lot of things you might miss out on if you debut just like that. So I totally agree that just getting started is the best thing you can do. It's also a good idea to build friendships with small streamers before you stream yourself, that way you'll have people support you right from the start, help you out etc. After more than a year of streaming I am now working on my new model and plan a redebut. And now that I already have a community and know what I'm doing, I'm sure it'll go much better than my initual debut would have went ♥

[@YamAlbat]

aww thank you so much for sharing your experience! It makes me very happy to hear~ Good luck wiht your new model, may it be a fun process!

[@theit-fd4jn]

I love how I’m getting this right after I just fully done getting the artist to finish my model…

[@YamAlbat]

Good luck with your VTuber Journey! Please don't worry, I am sure it'll go great for you!

[@FL_nar_Rayya]

Interesting video, I took notes on a lot of points because I can tell they didn't come from nothing. I still think I'll go for a debut, on reason #1 I'm already experienced in content creation. Reason #2 I can make everything by myself (it takes a really long time though, but I simply glad of the work I did). Reason #3 I plan to make it different, focusing about what the audience will get from watching me, not about what I like. I also did a vtuber before but I wasn't satisfied with the way I went with it, I hoped to get famous right of the bat with low efforts put into it, no debut, no advertisement, just play the game when it comes out. Now I know I have the best vision of what I'll represent to others and I know it won't be big, I'll just focus on having fun. I'll feel like I did something my way, not a weird, generic and awkward way like I did last time streaming with 1 viewer for the whole 4 hours. I'm not bashing btw, I think you have a solid opinion on the subject and applies to a lot of newcomers out there. Streaming before-hand is important to get a taste of how it works (I streamed 3 times before).

[@k4rott_]

People who think VTubing is easy need to watch your videos! I never thought being a VTuber was as easy as the haters think, but I didn't think it was that complicated until I watched your videos lol

[@YamAlbat]

Aw thank you for taking the time to say so 💕 VTubing is very overwhelming once you try it yourself. I’m just trying to take the pressure off of new creators the best I can!

[@Daffodilzae]

You look so cute! And I absolutely hate the idea of the debut and stress it brings.

[@YamAlbat]

Aw thank you! And yeah, debuts can be quite stressful!

[@MrSmitheroons]

You can definitely do practice content at low or no cost. VeadoTube will get you running with a reactive PNG like shown in this video. You can record your OBS to a video file on your local computer, or set up a privated livestream to KZbin. PNGTuber stuff and even certain games (anything 2D, older games like Portal 1 or 2... Classic/retro games, most web or freeware games), + OBS for recording or streaming, can absolutely run on a decent *non gaming* specced laptop. A laptop also has a built-in mic (and webcam if needed) that can prove the point to yourself that your content can, at least in practical ways, work. So, I totally support the recommendation to start low-cost and get practice in OBS first thing, if you're wondering about first steps. Try it out, but don't worry about buying equipment just to start, if you do need something then buy something budget-tier first, something you can use for Zoom meetings or what-have-you.

[@YamAlbat]

Exactly! thanks for contributing to the conversation!

[@LuluTeala]

I wanna do a debut just for the fun of it, the "vtuber experience". :D I know I'll never be as popular as a corpo tuber for a few reasons, but that's not gonna stop me from having fun and aspiring to do so anyways ^ ^ Even if it's scuffed, I'll be happy. I am "old" and behind the times anyways ^ ^;; I really appreciate the last part of the vid because of it ^ ^ Very useful information!

[@CABLEG0RE]

3:20 If youre interested in learning how to rig for yourself, going through multiple character concepts is actually a good thing. Im learning live 2d and have made 3 models for myself already with entirely different characters, i wouldve not gotten that much practice if it wasnt for me changing up my character multiple times. Im also working on rigging a model for one of my friends and need to make a new one for myself again. Its a good idea to practice on multiple different characters and art styles to help practice different ways to rig something to make the art look good in motion.

[@Dominik-K]

"It could be anything, even a chicken nugget" ... Now youve got me interested

[@amandawest8781]

The Sonic forces clips gave me war flashbacks

[@YamAlbat]

It was a spiritual journey

[@MrSmitheroons]

Also, this answered something I've been thinking about myself: Should I debut when I'm ready to start streaming? Or since no-one will know me and I'll be streaming to 0 viewers that day more than likely... Would it be better to stream some normal content for a while first, if I ever "debut" at all? I see so many professional VTubers having a "2.0 debut" or something, it makes me feel like you can always come back and do it later. Feels weird to make any final decisions before I'm ready to really start, but streaming normally to begin would IMO be the better idea.

[@YamAlbat]

VTuber debuts on the indie side are best done after people know who you are. That's why you see 2.0 debuts a lot! No matter what you decide, i hope you have fun with your VTuber activities!

[@raitoiro]

5:28 I agree with the rest, but not the part on hardware, especially the microphone. Obviously, new content creators shouldn't buy professional grade microphone but neither should they settle for the cheapest one either. Sound quality is the one thing you can't mess up, if a bad microphone makes understanding you is a chore a lot of (if not most) viewers will move on, even if the rest is good.

[@YamAlbat]

Good point! Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

[@_Ekaros]

Good audio is very old thing. Remember even TotalBiscuit (popular now dead game commentator) named that as most important thing. You don't need top-of-the-line expensive studio quality, but it should be at least decent.

[@pepo_asmr]

What i did as an indie : i started streaming and decided that my goal was to do an official debut on my affiliate achievement stream. This took only a week for me ! I reached affiliate very fast and hadn't perpared much for my debut ! It was very scuffed and after an hour of random i did what i used to do all the streams before and everyone loved it. That made me realize that even tho debuting felt important to me, it didn't matter much as an indie. I did have a great time, that day, tho !

[@vincentkenjiro4054]

Shit I feel a lot better about myself thanks for helping me find my guidance

[@user-tz5tb5od6j]

So I'm looking to start Vtubing pretty soon and this video was super helpful! I was wondering though on how to go about interacting with other Vtubers? If I watch their streams / comment, should I use my personal account / a separate account so as to not get attention of their viewers? What do you think about stuff like that? I have no clue what to do in terms of what's normal on this...

[@YamAlbat]

Normally, discords are the way to find other vtubers to interact with. you can't really make friends with a vtuber through being a chatter on stream, because a streamer will typically be in a different mindset. I have a discord with a lot of aspiring VTubers, and as long as you are 16 or over, you can join my discord! discord.gg/P8s4y2BCNP

[@MMDbuddy]

It took me 3 years to make the concept I liked and I stuck to the one I loved the most it took me 3 years , 3 my style and art changed so much since and Im glad I'm where I am

[@YamAlbat]

Heck yea! so glad youve stuck with it for 3 years!

[@josiahsuarez]

start small is good advice. let things grow organically if it comes to that 👍

[@riewolf7777]

Thank you for the great video! I liked to see your perspective on it and I feel like if anyone does want to do a debut still, it might be a good idea to start off with a png tuber and just make content, and then once you have a model, and anything you might want to share, debut! I think it definitely depends on the experience they have just as you were saying! From my perspective, I actually do want to be a variety streamer for the freedom of knowing what my options are if I don’t feel like I want to play games all the time. I was feeling the stress though of not knowing when to start, and how to go about it because I don’t have any knowledge of how to stream, but I would like to. I totally agree with the slow growth > quick growth because my dad already was a streamer and content creator. People from his viewers came to me when I tried to make my second video, (some of which I thought were friends for me but Ig only wanted clout because of my dad) so they were not only seeking clout but also wanted to control the way I was making my video, so I actually started crying during the video and I didn’t know what to do. I stopped recording and stopped video creation altogether after that, but I think I’m willing to give it a go again now that I’m more prepared! I’m actually really looking forward to it, but what I’m finding super strange is that I find it hard to picture being this character which I want to be for my streams. Then when I took an old character of mine and redesigned him as a demo vtuber model which I could work with to practice live2d, I somehow like or relate to this character more than the one I want to play.. I feel like something is missing about my current design of her which is throwing me off and making me not want to play as her. Do you have any tips as of how to more easily relate with a design or how to make an existing design stand out if you know you still want to use it?

[@YamAlbat]

Thank you for sharing your experience! my advice would be to add personal touches to the existing design! If that’s the one you are more attached to, I say stick with the design that speaks to you the most! Best of luck with your vtuber endeavors!

[@riewolf7777]

@@YamAlbat Okay, tysm!! I will do exactly that! ^^

[@Sajeas]

Funny thing that this video came out on my 2 Anniversary and my debut was 2 years ago. In very shy manner I was talking for around 10 min about myself and started playing a game after. I agree that slow growth is better than viral one, or I would be overwhelmed and panic a lot.

[@YamAlbat]

You’ve been at this for a while too! Glad you’ve stuck with it 💕 Your design is very memorable, I remember you from my Indie Appreciation showcase! Keep that it!

[@Sajeas]

@@YamAlbat Thank you for your kind words.

[@solarhawk77]

So what are your thoughts on a "debut" of a new model for those who have started with a PNG and built a community slowly, and when they finally do get a model after like 2 years of streaming actively and such? People do still often like to see at least the model showcase of toggles, features, etc, as a lot of the people I watch also have redeems around these things, and it's a fun way to encourage said community to use these redeems (or know what they are to know if that's something they want), so rather than say a vtuber debut, what about a model debut?

[@YamAlbat]

Model debuts and redebuts are wonderful! The traditional debut really doesn't work because the creator has 0 streaming experience and 0 established audience. If you have a model debut/redebut when you have both streaming experience and an established audience, i think that's wonderful!

[@solarhawk77]

@@YamAlbat I entirely agree, I meant do you have any advice regarding this? I think that your points about say a powerpoint is kinda silly and irrelevant, except for say laying out the lore/history of the CHARACTER being on screen, but what thoughts do you have for what is a good and bad thing to do for said debut?

[@BrandiBlitz]

What should I do as a vtuber? Practice… then go all in. Go professional AF! Make it look like I could be a part of an agency or group XD

[@nickd6303]

So the issue stems from an "identity crisis" of wanting to be like or using the template of the group model when starting solo.

[@YamAlbat]

I could definitely say that’s the case for some aspiring VTubers yes (that was the reason i debuted. To be like hololive!)

[@nickd6303]

@@YamAlbat I suppose an exception to doing a debut and lore as an indie is if you choose to lean in heavily on the character concept and acting.

[@saltytabby]

I agree with this. Spending all your time on a big debut sounds like putting your eggs in the wrong basket to me. I think it would be better to focus on building your channel, actually putting out content, and enjoying yourself and trying not to stress out too much.

[@okasch.8412]

7:50 Awww nervous Lorelei dot wav Also OOH THERE I AM GARY THERE I AM 9:06 (though the bee boss was "pressure" content of another kind.) This is all very good and wise advice though, listen to this bat. Personally, if I could do one thing over, I would probably have started streaming months earlier as a PNG while still working on my version Live2d 1 rig, since having it on day 1 really didn't make a difference..! And the weeks or months of practice would have been much more valuable. That said, my fancy v2 rig didn't come into the picture until more than year later, so FOR SURE waiting to upgrade incrementally is the way to go. (Also, priority #1 for production value is MAKE YOUR AUDIO GOOD. Frreal it is 1000% more important than anything visual!! First purchase = decent mic and an arm!!)

[@YamAlbat]

There you are! Yes, sonic forces footage was high pressure high quality content. Well earned. And YES LISTEN TO THE COYOTE MAN, audio > fancy model!

[@KuraunHazuki]

I honestly didn't advertise or tag my streams/going live because I wanted to get used to OBS etc. and only told very few friends, but after some time of doing streams on and off I'm now comfortable enough to tag/advertise my streams and upload as well as be consistent. Its also helped me watching other vtubers AFTER streaming since I can apply what they do to myself now that I'm streaming. Also by not debuting and just streaming you'll know if its not only something you can handle but if it'll be fun to you. I've been using free vroid items from Booth and giving minor edits to the outfits to create a look I liked for myself. If you have a 3D model you can also use MMD and Vroid to make thumbnails for yourself c:

[@YamAlbat]

That's the best way to go! Good for you! I hope you continue to have fun on your VTuber journey!

[@zoruasnivy]

Equipment is REALLY expensive, I debated a while if I should even get a capture card because I enjoyed streaming to friends in Discord but my computer wasn't good enough to stream many games. Even just a capture card can set you back $200 or more. Definitely test the waters first before investing in equipment, you will see what you need in time. It could turn out that what you need is much less than you originally thought.

[@YamAlbat]

Yeah, modern capture cards start at 150. It’s pretty insane. I’m super thankful for mine, but it’s definitely not possible for most beginners. Thank goodness for steam games tho, right?

[@mallowskycotl]

1:43 what is this clip you used 🤩🤩 it looks so cool but I can't find it!!

[@YamAlbat]

It’s the latest hololive summer animated music video!

[@AndyMandyBandy]

i personally want to do a debut, but it will be very chill. i also really like powerpoints so want to make some more streams like that. i also have alreay done a few streams. :D

[@YamAlbat]

sounds like a good time! do the parts of a debut you enjoy and skip the rest. the most important thing is that you got some practice in ahead of time

[@AndyMandyBandy]

@@YamAlbat right! Plan to do a few more streams with a png tuber before I have my debut. :]

[@15_heidune72]

So, don't go all in at the beginning? That makes sense!

[@YamAlbat]

Yeah, I highly recommend you take it slow and enjoy the journey instead of worrying about getting it perfect at first!

[@15_heidune72]

​@@YamAlbatsounds like a good way to avoid burnout, too!

[@Death_vaughn]

i feel like i am being attacked for knowing what i want and being precise in reaching my goal 😂

[@Sycafox]

You upload this video and Hololive gives the description of the new talents away on Twitter already, so that hopefully the debuts can be something different this time...? What a coincidence.

[@YamAlbat]

Yeah it’ll be interesting to see wha happens with Hololive DEV_IS

[@Swanzo]

In the beginning I sucked at talking I can't imagine doing some kind of debut when you aren't good at talking.

[@CoolLilySis]

7:05 Are there any Vtubers that do indeed incorporate all that into their content? Although many seem to have their own "persona", I've yet to see one that isn't just "themselves but as an anime character". None feels much like a character being played, even with those that do seem to alter their voices a bit just for their character's sake.

[@YamAlbat]

I would say the closest group that got to this was VERSE under Sony Japan! They are a group of VTubers who are characters within an anime universe and play heavily into their characters!

[@lastationproductions]

I’m a vtuber and I just started I don’t have a full model yet I’m using a default png avatar at the moment

[@neonmoonVT]

Lol my debut was me just filling out one of those vtuber info cards

[@YamAlbat]

Yeah those info cards are so fun 😂 I did one myself

[@BrandiBlitz]

“De-butes are boring” me: and that’s why I’m not just making a powerpoint. I’m making a franchise.

[@YamAlbat]

Heck yeah!!! go beyond the powerpoint!

[@Kitalula]

Gonna pursue my dream of becoming dino chicky nuggie png streamer lol /s But on a serious note, wonderful video, and very informative ^^ Gave me a lot to think about.

[@YamAlbat]

Glad you enjoyed it! Good luck on your content creation journey!

[@semiengima]

HOnestly doing a Debut is a waste of time. You're better off spending your early days experimenting and seeing what you like. I started as a pngtuber and did all kinds of stuff. IF anything I may do a 2 year recap to see how much I've changed.

[@YamAlbat]

Exactly!