How to Get the Most Out of Your Studio Time

Studio time can be expensive. Whether you're recording an album, filming a commercial, or working on a creative project of any kind, time in the studio is often one of your biggest investments. And as anyone who's ever been in a studio knows, the clock is always ticking. In fact, one of my first lessons as a studio owner was that time in the studio should never feel like it’s slipping through your fingers. Every moment counts, and to get the most out of it, you need to plan, communicate, and execute with intention. Here are some pro tips for maximizing your time in the studio.

Define Your Objectives

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen people walk into the studio without a clear objective. I’ve done it myself, and it usually results in chaos or wasted time. To avoid that, always go into your session knowing exactly what you need to accomplish. Do you need to record an entire album? Film a few key scenes? Or perhaps just nail a specific shot? Having a clear goal will help keep everyone on track and focused. One thing I always recommend to my clients is creating a list of “must-haves” for the session, and anything beyond that is a bonus. 

Prepare Your Materials

Preparation is the foundation of a successful session. That means getting everything ready before you even step foot in the studio. Have your script printed out, track listings finalized, or props organized. The last thing you want is to waste time digging through boxes or scrambling to find something crucial.

When we’re filming, I personally make sure all the camera gear is prepped the day before, and that every prop or costume is set up the night before. It’s a small investment of time upfront that pays off big when you’re in the thick of things.

Time Block Your Session

Here’s a simple trick: break your studio time into time blocks. I’ve seen teams waste hours trying to figure out what comes next. To keep things moving, have a schedule that clearly allocates time for each part of the session. For example, say your session is six hours long. You might block out two hours for setup and lighting, three hours for shooting/recording, and one hour for breakdown and wrap-up.

Prioritize Key Tasks

There’s no “one-size-fits-all” when it comes to studio schedules. Some tasks require more focus, while others are easier to knock out quickly. You don’t want to start your session with something complex when everyone’s fresh—save that for the end when energy might be dipping a little.

For instance, I’ve found that shooting wide-angle scenes or working on complicated sound setups is best done first. Those tasks take more brainpower and coordination. Later on, I leave the more straightforward shots or setups for when we’ve settled into the flow of the day.

Build in Flexibility

In any production, delays will happen. I’ve been through enough sessions to know that the unexpected is always just around the corner—whether it’s technical glitches, talent delays, or weather changes (if you’re shooting outdoors). Allowing buffer time in your schedule ensures you don’t have to panic when things go off-script.

Digital Scheduling and Communication

Efficient communication is key to staying on track. I recommend using digital scheduling apps, like Google Calendar, to keep everyone on the same page. Everyone from the crew to the talent needs to know where they should be and when. Having these details synced up in real-time ensures no one is left wondering what’s happening next.

Comfortable Environment

This might seem like a small detail, but it’s huge: make sure the studio environment is comfortable. If it’s too hot, too cold, or if there’s uncomfortable seating, you’re going to notice a dip in productivity. A comfortable workspace encourages focus and creativity. Have enough snacks, coffee, or water to keep energy levels high, and make sure everyone feels welcome.

Foster Open Communication

You know what makes for an inefficient studio? When people don’t speak up. Whether it's a director not voicing concerns about a shot or a musician not communicating about a take, lack of communication can waste valuable time. Foster an environment where people feel comfortable speaking up, offering ideas, or raising issues.

A great example is from a shoot where the talent suggested a completely different way to approach a scene. Initially, we were resistant to change, but the suggestion turned out to be exactly what the project needed. Don’t shut down new ideas—sometimes the best work happens when we let go of our assumptions.

Regular Check-ins

It’s easy to get lost in the moment, so I always schedule quick check-ins throughout the session. They don’t need to be long, but checking in ensures that you’re on track to hit your objectives. For example, a mid-session meeting where the team can give feedback on what’s been accomplished and adjust the schedule as needed can save hours later.

Know When to Stop

One of the best ways to keep the session productive is knowing when to call it a day. I’ve had many sessions where we push on just because “we’re so close,” and then we end up dragging things out unnecessarily. Set a hard stop time, and stick to it. This not only ensures that you don’t overrun your budget but also forces you to focus on what truly matters.

Debrief Your Team

At the end of a session, I always take time to debrief. What went well? What could be improved? This isn’t just about assessing the technical aspects of the session; it’s also about maintaining team morale and improving communication for next time.

Conclusion

Maximizing your studio time boils down to one thing: preparation. By planning ahead, streamlining your workflow, and optimizing your environment, you’ll save time, reduce stress, and ensure the best possible outcome for your project. Whether you're recording music, shooting a film, or doing any other creative work, every studio session is an opportunity to work smarter, not harder. With these tips in hand, you’re ready to make the most out of your studio time, every time.