How long does recording take?

One of the most common questions we hear is: how long does recording take?

Whether you’re booking a studio for the first time or planning a recurring session, knowing how much studio time you actually need makes everything easier, and helps avoid rushing or overspending.

The short answer: it depends. But we know that's unhelpful, so we've shed a bit more light on this below.

Start with the content, not the clock

Before you think about studio time, think about what you’re recording:

• Is it audio only, or audio and video?

• How many people are involved?

• Is it scripted, loosely planned or free-flowing?

• Are there remote guests?

• Are you recording one episode or several?

All of these affect recording duration far more than people expect.

Typical recording times (as a rough guide)

These are very general estimates, but they’re a helpful starting point. The below are based on a single episode being approximately 30 minutes.

Audio-only podcast (one episode)

• Recording: 45–60 minutes

• Studio time needed: 1.5–2 hours

The extra time covers setup, sound checks, breaks and restarting if needed.

Video podcast (one episode)

• Recording time: 45–60 minutes

• Studio time needed: 2–3 hours

Video needs additional time for lighting, camera setup and framing.

Interviews with guests

• Recording time: 30–60 minutes

• Studio time needed: 2–3 hours

Guest sessions often run longer due to:

• Mic setup

• Explaining the format

• Re-recording intros or questions

• Guests sometimes running late if they're not familiar with the studio's location

Recording multiple episodes in one session

• Recording time: 2–3 hours

• Studio time needed: 3–4+ hours

Batch recording is efficient, but it still needs:

• Breaks

• Resetting between episodes

• Clothing changes if a video podcast (you don't want viewers to think you've batch recorded)

Why recording usually takes longer than expected

Most people underestimate studio time because they only think about the “talking” part.

In reality, time is also used for:

• Sound checks

• Camera framing

• Mic adjustments

• Repeating sections

• Pausing for mistakes or restarts

• Short breaks to stay fresh

None of this is wasted time, though. It’s what makes the final result sound and look good. You can always a rushed podcast from one where enough time has been planned.

How to estimate your own session length

A simple rule of thumb:

Take the length of your finished episode and double it.

Then add extra time if:

• You’re recording video

• You have multiple guests

• It’s your first session

• You’re recording more than one episode

If you’re unsure, it’s almost always better to book slightly more time than you think you’ll need. Rushing a session rarely leads to better content.

Home vs studio time expectations

If you’re used to recording at home, studio sessions can feel different, and often quicker. But that's not necessarily a good thing.

At home:

• Setup might be quicker

• Quality issues often show up later

• Fixes happen in editing

In a studio:

• More time is spent upfront on setup

• Fewer problems appear later

• Editing is usually faster and cleaner

That’s why studio sessions often feel more structured, and why they tend to run more smoothly overall. (Read our blog on home vs studio recording.)

Planning around budget

Studio time and cost go hand in hand, so planning matters. If you’re working to a budget, you don't want to use it up on the first episode because you haven't taken into account the studio time it will need.

If budget is an issue:

• Consider shorter episodes

• Batch multiple recordings in one session

• Keep formats consistent

• Prepare talking points in advance

Clear planning reduces overruns and makes sessions more efficient.

You can see how this works in practice on our Pricing page, which breaks down booking options and session lengths so you can choose what fits your schedule and budget.

There’s no single answer to 'how long does recording take?'

Which, as we said, we know isn't very helpful. But with a bit of planning, it’s easy to avoid guesswork.

Think about your format, allow time for setup and give yourself space to relax into the conversation. Good recordings don’t come from watching the clock. They come from having enough time to focus on what you’re creating.

If you’re unsure how much time to book, starting with a slightly longer session is usually the smartest move. At Blueprint Studios, you can book a 15 minute call with us on our website to talk through your plan and our team will advise on session length and anything else you want to know - or just get in touch.

FAQs: studio recording time

How long does recording take for a podcast?

For a single podcast episode of approximately 30 minutes, recording usually takes 45–60 minutes, but most people need 1.5–2 hours of studio time once setup, sound checks and breaks are included.

How much studio time should I book for my first session?

If it’s your first time recording in a studio, it’s sensible to book more time than you think you need. First sessions often take longer due to setup, getting comfortable on mic and figuring out pacing. At Blueprint Studios London we also have multiple sets and sometimes people using our studio take a bit of time deciding which set to use!

Does video recording take longer than audio?

Yes. Video adds time for lighting, camera setup and framing. As a rough guide, video podcasts usually need 30–60 minutes more studio time than audio-only recordings.

Can I record multiple episodes in one session?

Yes, and it’s often the most efficient option. Batch recording several episodes in one session saves setup time, but you’ll still need breaks to avoid fatigue, and remember to bring outfit changes if you're recording a video podcast. A half-day session is common for multi-episode recordings.

What happens if my session runs over time?

That depends on the studio's availability, but it’s always best to plan realistically upfront. Rushing a session rarely leads to better content, so allowing a buffer is usually worth it. At Blueprint Studios London, we'll never push you out the door! We let you know if there's a booking after yours, and will make sure you know as your session is coming to a close. The last thing a good podcast needs is its hosts or guests feeling rushed!

Is studio time the same as recording duration?

No. Recording duration is just the time spent talking. Studio time includes setup, sound checks, adjustments, retakes and breaks, which is why total session length is always longer than the finished episode.