I am in the first stages of production with my first full band client as a freelance engineer. Ideally, since they are from Michigan, we should be video-chatting at some point this week to talk about aesthetic.
Apparently I am in the mood to make lists
Things you should have decided before you even begin recording:
1-Input list: what instrument, what microphone, and what input
This should be forwarded to the studio when you book time there. It guarantees that the microphones you are requesting will be waiting for you and at the very least gives them an idea of what you will be doing.
Even if you are not using a studio, have this ready before you begin. It’ll make things a hell of a lot easier.
2-Have the money worked out: I am still experimenting with my rates for audio work. The issue is that you have to make a profit after travel expenses and studio fees (or equipment fee if you are recording this outside of a studio).
In my situation, we are still deciding about working in a studio. There are advantages of working outside of a studio such as longer hours (not always a good thing…), more comfortable environment, privacy, the experience to work with your equipment in ways you would have never used otherwise, the entire rate goes to you. But of course, you are ultimately sacrificing the variety of equipment, ease of use, and a slimmer time frame.
Ultimately the music just has to get made and if you deliver the song, who cares where it was recorded?
