Remote podcasting has emerged as a powerful tool for business-to-business (B2B) communications. With the right setup, you can deliver high-quality content to your audience without the limitations of geographical boundaries.
This guide will walk you through key tips for preparing yourself and your guests for remote podcast recording. And don’t worry — we won’t get too technical. In fact, remote podcasting has never been easier.
Choose the Right Recording Platform
The first step in successful remote podcasting is selecting the right recording software.
There are numerous platforms out there, each with its own advantages.
For example, Riverside.fm is a platform known for its ability to record locally on each participant's device and then upload high-quality video and audio files. This feature is crucial for maintaining top-notch sound and picture quality.
Other platforms to consider include:
While video conferencing services like Zoom are an option, they record at a lower quality and typically don’t separate audio and video tracks for each participant by default (which makes editing more difficult).
For in-depth insights into selecting the best platform for your needs, check out this software guide.
Preparing Your Guests
One of the most common challenges with remote podcasting is managing your guest’s setup.
While some may show up with top-tier equipment, others may rely on low-quality built-in microphones.
Here’s how you can help your guests avoid common pitfalls and ensure they’re ready for the best recording possible.
1. Headphones: Always recommend wired headphones. Wireless earbuds can run out of battery or may be connected to a phone which may ring mid-conversation, creating unnecessary disruptions. Wired headphones provide consistent sound quality and help avoid audio feedback.
2. Microphones: Built-in laptop or phone microphones often produce subpar sound. Encourage your guests to use an external wired microphone. Even an affordable microphone, like suggested in our article here , should make a significant difference.
3. Quiet Space: Ask your guest to record in a quiet space, preferably one without an echo. This includes closing doors and windows, turning off fans, and informing anyone nearby that they’ll be recording. These simple actions help fend off background noise, which can be difficult to edit out later.
4. Equipment Testing: Encourage your guest to test their equipment before the recording session. Have them double-check their inputs to ensure they’re speaking into the correct microphone and that their headphones are working properly before you start your interview, or better yet, during your Pre-Interview as mentioned below.
Camera and Lighting Setup
If your podcast includes video, the visual aspect is just as important as the audio. Here are a few simple tips for improving your guest’s on-camera presence:
1. Camera Framing: Ask your guest to center themselves in the camera’s frame, leaving some headroom and ensuring their face is in the top third of the screen.
2. Lighting: Natural lighting is ideal, but if that’s not possible, suggest that your guest use a ring light or other key light setup. Proper lighting helps eliminate shadows and makes your guest look more professional. Avoid having strong light sources behind the guest, as this can make them look like just a silhouette.
3. Pre-Interviews and Dry Runs: Before the actual recording, conduct a quick pre-interview. This not only helps break the ice but also serves as a technology test to ensure everything is working as expected.
Remote Recording Tips
Once you’ve chosen your platform and your guest is prepared, keep these final points in mind:
1. File Format: When saving audio, opt for WAV files instead of MP3s. WAV files retain more of the original audio quality, while MP3s compress the file and lose some of that crispness.
2. Don’t Hang Up Early: Always remind your guest not to leave the session immediately after you’ve completed the interview. Many platforms, including Riverside.fm, save files locally on each participant’s device. If someone disconnects before the files are fully uploaded, you may need to contact them to re-initialize the upload to access your recordings.
3. Record Introductions Separately: If you prefer to record your podcast introductions separately, do it immediately after your guest leaves. This will keep the energy consistent, allow you to reflect directly on the topics covered in the interview and allow you to maintain a smooth workflow. Nothing delays podcast production like a missing introduction!
Final Thoughts
By following these tips, you can create a seamless, high-quality remote podcast experience that reflects the professionalism of your brand.
With the right recording platform, proper guest preparation, and attention to details like camera framing and file formats, you’ll be well on your way to producing engaging, polished content.
And if you have more burning questions about remote recording, reach out to us! We love talking about podcasting.
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