Recording studio: tips to increase your bookings

Just finished building your new recording studio and cannot wait to start? To make that happen, you will need to attract the attention of artists and musicians.

While this might seem challenging at first, the truth is that it’s not as hard as you think. There are just a few key things you need to keep in mind. Here’s how you can make scheduling paid studio sessions easier. 

The challenge of running a recording studio

We all know the music industry is booming, but with that growth comes fierce competition for both artists and producers. Managing the day-to-day operations of a recording studio takes a lot of attention to detail.

Sure, having top-tier production equipment and software is a must, but just as important is knowing how to get your studio noticed. Getting your space in front of the right people–hundreds of artists–requires technical and marketing know-how. Mastering these elements can mean the difference between booking dozens of clients each month or struggling to get any at all. 

We get it—you are eager to start creating unforgettable tracks. But first, you need to capture interest from artists near and far.

How to attract more clients?

Running a recording studio is just like running any other business. Ultimately, the growth of your studio depends on you. The more clients you book, the better your profits and experience will be. In the music world, everyone—whether they’re a producer or an artist—must earn their place, and that comes from consistent effort and building your reputation.

Looking to increase your bookings each month? Here are some tips to help you get there. 

1. Quality of the equipment in the recording studio

Having a fancy, neon-lit studio is fine, but ask yourself: “Are my microphones and interfaces up to standard? Are my monitors delivering solid sound quality, or are they outdated?”

No artist–no matter how talented–wants to work with substandard gear, especially when it comes to something as crucial as a microphone. A bad microphone can compromise the entire recording process and make artists lose trust in your studio’s capabilities.

Brands like Sennheiser, Rode, or Shure offer durable, high-performance gear like headphones, microphones, and interfaces that’ll stand the test of time and make your job easier when it comes to mixing and mastering.

2. Prioritize soundproofing

A recording space with poor soundproofing is any producer’s or singer’s nightmare. Poorly managed spatial acoustics can lead to audio feedback, which can degrade the quality of any song.

Make sure your recording studio has a fully soundproof booth. There are affordable materials out there that provide excellent sound isolation for small spaces. This way, you will not waste hours trying to remove external noises or echoes from your recordings.

3. Special spaces in your recording studio

Your studio should be like the aisles of a shopping mall, where each aisle offers a different product. Each section of your studio should be designed to meet various creative needs.

Every music project is unique and comes with its logistical requirements. For example, a booth designed specifically for vocal recording should not be used to record drums or guitars. Whenever possible, create separate spaces for diverse types of recording. Having designated areas for vocals, instruments, and other needs will make your sessions run smoother and more efficiently.

4. Promote yourself

You might find it hard to believe, but social media is not just for scrolling and giving endless likes. These platforms have become the ideal tools for building both business and artistic careers.

With that in mind, make sure your studio is front and center on these platforms. Posting high-quality photos of your workspace or reels is a great way to grab attention. Highlight your monitors, booth, and microphones in this type of content. Create visually appealing material that makes your studio irresistible to any artist.

5. Prioritize comfort in your recording studio

Artists and clients should feel at home in your studio. Comfort is key when designing any space you plan to use regularly. 

Investing in high-quality furniture and comfortable chairs is essential for creating an inviting environment where performers can relax and focus on their work. These elements are not just about physical comfort; they play a crucial role in fostering creativity and productivity. When artists feel at ease, they are more likely to reach their full potential, whether they are composing, rehearsing, or recording.

Additionally, consider installing a heating system for extremely hot or cold days if feasible. Also, make sure that musicians and artists can easily access all areas.

6. Value added

In the market, there are hundreds of recording studios, leading to direct competition. Considering that, take a moment to ask yourself: “What unique offerings can I bring to my studio that others do not?”.

Providing value-added services will make many artists want to record in your studio. For instance, consider hiring a professional videographer. With their help, you will be able to offer artists promotional videos to share on social media. This will not only boost their online presence but also increase your visibility and your reputation as a producer or engineer.

Offering food services and flexible booking options are also good options. Think about the needs of the artists you want to attract and go beyond what other studios are offering. 

Once you put these tips into practice, you will notice a positive change in the flow of clients to your recording studio.

However, be patient—it won’t happen overnight. This is a long-term process that requires consistent time and effort. Stick with it, and soon enough, your monthly booking calendar will be full.

Remember, every recording studio is different. So, tailor these suggestions to suit your own professional and creative goals.