Studio time is precious. When you’re paying good money by the hour, you want to use that time wisely. Being organized and prepared to tackle every challenge means that you’ll save time and get the best results possible out of your session. These strategies for nailing your studio time apply to both novice and experienced recordists.
1. Set Clear Goals for Your Session
Be clear in your mind about what you want to achieve before you even get to the studio. Are you recording rough demos, working on a section, or doing final takes? The clearer you are with your plan for each session, the more you avoid delays, and the more focused you become. If working with a band or co-producers, plan together in advance and be clear about your goals so that everyone is on the same page before you hit the record button.
Pro tip: Make a list of specific items before you start recording, such as “track vocals,” “finish the guitar solo,” or “get a rough mix.” This way, you can mark off the list and keep momentum.
2. Know Your Material Inside and Out
Practice makes perfect. Arrive in the studio having practiced as much as possible. It’s tempting to “see how it goes” or leave some sections to be improvised, but even if you are a relatively spontaneous player, it’s essential to have a solid foundation in place. This way, you can focus on expression and nuance rather than being caught out by a mistake in a basic part. The session runs more smoothly, fewer retakes are needed, and, as a result, each take is likely to be of higher quality.
If you can, do a few run-throughs at home or in a rehearsal space and record yourself; you’ll hear the rough spots that need to be tightened up before you get into the studio.
3. Create a Rough Version or Demo to Guide the Session
Record a demo as a reference track ahead of time, even if it’s just a guide for a rough arrangement. It doesn’t have to be fancy; it just shouldn’t be completely lacking in direction. Demos set up a roadmap for the engineer and co-producer to visualize the finished product – don’t leave it to imagination, and you’ll save the studio precious time by not having to ask for clarification on what you are looking for. It’s also a wonderful place to try out structure and ideas in a place that won’t break the bank.
4. Familiarize Yourself with the Studio Equipment
If you’re working in a professional studio (like Pop Music Studios, for example), find out what equipment is available there. You don’t have to be a gear nerd and know about every microphone, mixer, and instrument in the place, but you should have a basic understanding of what gear is available so you can communicate more effectively with the engineer. This way, you’ll be able to make more informed choices about your sound and won’t waste studio time tweaking and testing.
If you’re unsure about a particular item of equipment, ask the engineer or the studio staff. After all, they are there to help and answer your questions. They can tell you which tools will best capture the sound you are after.
5. Be Ready for Multiple Takes and Experimentation
Even the best-prepared musicians will find their ideas change in the studio. Perhaps a vocal line needs more or less intensity, or that guitar line will work better with a different tone. Keep changing things up, and keep your mind open to trying new ideas. Build time into your session for experimenting, too, so you won’t be panicking if inspiration does strike. Often, the best moments are spontaneous or captured on a take you weren’t planning on.
Pro-tip: Record more takes than you think you’ll need – sometimes it’s the unplanned takes that end up being the best during the mix.
6. Get Comfortable Before Recording
No one can play their best when uncomfortable. Before you begin recording, take a few minutes to set yourself up. If you’re a vocalist, set the mic height and do a few warm-up exercises. If you’re an instrumentalist, make sure your chair is at the correct height and angle, and that your instrument is tuned and in good working order. Mental comfort is just as important. Give yourself a minute or two to shake off your nerves, clear your head, and focus on the music.
If you have others working with you, a quick huddle or even a jam session can get the creative juices flowing and set the tone for the session.
7. Communicate Clearly with Your Engineer
You need a friend in the studio with you – the studio engineer! This technical ear has a good idea of the best techniques to record sound, so be sure to tell them your vision before you record, share your references, describe what you want to hear, and ask for advice. They’ll be there to best help your artistic vision, and can give you advice on mic placement, sound, tones, and mixes.
Pro Tip: If you’re bringing effects or layering into the session, bring examples of your sound or have a five-minute discussion before the session starts. That way, the engineer knows what you’re trying to accomplish and can spend less time back and forth tweaking your sound.
Ready to make your music a reality? Book a session at Pop Music Studios today, and let’s make your creative vision come alive!
