Recording a podcast in a studio
Video podcasts and interviews look best when the space is controlled: even light, no windows changing through the day, and room for cameras on every guest. Here is how to plan a studio recording.
Decide the look
A podcast set can be minimal — two chairs on a white or lit cyclorama — or a built set with a table, shelves and practical lamps. Choose one look and keep it for the season so episodes feel consistent.
Cameras and framing
- One wide shot of everyone, plus one close shot per person.
- Matching cameras and settings so the edit cuts cleanly.
- Enough card space and power for long takes.
Audio comes first
Viewers forgive an imperfect picture but not bad sound. Use a dedicated microphone per person, record a backup, and do a full sound check before guests arrive. The studio does not include audio equipment, so bring your own or arrange it with your sound person.
Lighting
With 100% blackout you control every light, so episodes recorded on different days still match. Soft key lights for faces, a separate light for the background, and a rigging grid to keep stands out of the shot make a clean setup.
How long to book
A single episode usually fits a 2-hour minimum booking at EGP 300 per hour, including setup. Recording several episodes in one session is the efficient option: a half day of 5 hours (EGP 1,200) leaves time for two or three episodes once the set is lit.
Checklist for the day
- 1Run-of-show with topics and timings per episode.
- 2Guests briefed on what to wear — avoid fine stripes and logos.
- 3Water on set, phones on silent.
- 4Back up audio and video after each episode.
Set ideas that work on camera
- Minimal: two chairs and a small table on a lit cyclorama, with a coloured wash for brand colour.
- Living room: a sofa, a rug and two practical lamps for warmth.
- Desk: a shared desk with microphones on arms, good for news-style or tech shows.
Common mistakes
- Lighting faces from straight above, which creates dark eyes.
- Microphones blocking faces on the close shots.
- Recording without a slate or clap, which makes syncing harder in the edit.
- Forgetting room tone: record thirty seconds of silence for the editor.
Recording several episodes in one session
- Light the set once and leave it untouched between episodes.
- Change small details — a cup, a lamp colour — so episodes do not look identical.
- Schedule guests with a gap between them for a reset and a sound check.
- Label cards and audio files per episode as you go.
Questions
Do you provide microphones?
Audio equipment is not included; bring your own or arrange it with your sound person.
Can we leave our set up for next time?
Ask us when you book — it depends on the bookings around yours.
Can we record at night?
Yes. The studio works 24/7 by appointment.
