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The Basics of Recording: What to Expect During Your First Studio Session

Updated: Jul 24

what to expect at your first studio session

If you're an artist gearing up for your first studio session, congratulations! Stepping into a recording studio is an exciting milestone in your musical journey. At Hella Loud, a premier recording studio in Long Beach, CA, we understand the mix of excitement and nervousness that comes with your first time in the studio. Here’s a quick overview of what you can expect to help you feel more prepared and confident.


Pre-Session Preparation

Before you even step foot in the recording studio, preparation is key. Make sure you have your songs well-rehearsed and any necessary sheet music or lyrics printed out or on your phone. It’s also helpful to have a clear vision of how you want your tracks to sound. Communicate this vision with your engineer so they can help bring your ideas to life. Being well-prepared will save you time and ensure a smoother recording process. It’s also perfectly fine if you are not well rehearsed. You can use your studio time to experiment with your creative ideas. It is more cost effective and efficient to come to the studio ready to record, but don’t feel pressured to have everything perfect. At Hella Loud we create a comfortable environment that allows you to develop your musical vision at your own pace.


The Setup

Upon arrival, you'll be introduced to the studio environment. The engineer will set up microphones, instruments, and any other equipment necessary to ensure the best possible sound quality. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or request adjustments – your comfort is crucial to a successful session.


The Recording Process

Once everything is set up, it's time to start recording. The engineer will guide you through a series of sound checks to balance levels and achieve the best sound. You might need to do a few takes to get the perfect recording, so patience is important. Remember, this is a collaborative process, and the engineers goal is to bring your musical vision to life in the best way possible.


Breaks and Downtime

Recording sessions can be intense, so don’t be surprised if you take breaks to rest your voice or regroup. Use this time to review your takes and discuss any adjustments with the engineer. A relaxed and positive atmosphere often leads to the best recordings.


Session and Wrap-Up

If there is a reasonable amount of time left in your session once you have finished recording, the engineer can begin the mixing process. This involves adjusting levels, adding effects, and fine-tuning your tracks to create a polished final product. Additional mixing outside of your scheduled session time will be billed separately. While you might not be present for all the mixing, your input is still valuable, so be sure to stay in touch and provide feedback. Be sure to bring a flash drive or external hard drive to save any recorded songs/demos from your session.


Final Thoughts

Your first studio session is a learning experience, and it’s okay to make mistakes. At Hella Loud, we strive to create a supportive and professional environment for all artists. Whether you’re a solo performer or a band, our goal is to help you create music that you’re proud of. If you're looking for a top-notch recording studio in Long Beach, CA, we're here to make your musical dreams a reality.


By following these tips and understanding the process, you'll be well on your way to a successful first recording session. Ready to book your session? Contact us today and let's make music together!



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