AV Recording Studio

The IT AV Services team is proud to present a new AV recording studio onsite at the Lab. The new facility is located in building 50B near the IT division office. It is used to record high-end audio and video productions that promote the Lab and align with its mission, core values, and branding.

Request a Recording Session

Instructions

1. The first step is to gain approval from Strategic Communications or division communications leadership.
2. Once approved, submit an AV Support form to request a recording session.
3. You will receive a link to request a specific date once a completed form is received and approved.

Scheduling

To help ensure a smooth process, observe the following guidelines:

• The studio is open for recording Mondays and Wednesdays from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. PT.
• A minimum of 48 hours notice is required to book a recording session during the regular hours of operation.
• The studio is for recording only. All content development, run-of-show preparation or practice sessions should be held in person or remotely.
• Enter an AV Support form to request a session (max duration is 60 minutes).

Important Notes

• Participants:
  • The studio can accommodate up to 4 in-room participants speaking on wired condenser microphones with headphones.
  • Remote participants can join via Zoom for hybrid sessions (no limit).

• Time Limit:
  • Short Form (Under 15 minutes): These focus on one specific thing and are great for quick updates, daily news, or short discussions.
  • Standard Length (30 minutes to 1 hour): Most recordings fall in this range. It gives enough time for deeper talks and interviews and covers a variety of topics, from storytelling to education and entertainment.

• AV Support:
  • A technician will arrive at the recording session 15-30 minutes before the start to begin the recording session and remain for the first 15 minutes to ensure a smooth start.
  • A technician will return at the end of the session to stop the recording and begin the Google Drive file transfer.

• Recording Tips: 
  • There is no real-time playback option during recording sessions.
  • Recording multiple takes within a session is encouraged if it doesn’t exceed the scheduled session time.
  • Any unwanted takes can be removed from the recording during the post-production process.

Final Deliverables

• Transfer Process:
  • IT AV Services will upload the recording files to Google Drive within 48 hours after the session.
  • Once the recording files are shared, it is the host’s responsibility to make a copy or save them locally.

• Post Production:
  • IT AV Services does not offer post-production editing services for studio recordings. Contact Creative Services at creative@lbl.gov for help with editing the recording files.

• Recording Files:
  • The following files will be provided:
    • Audio (.wav file)
      • Stereo Mix (all mics in one track)
      • Track 1-4 (each microphone recorded separately)
      • USB 2 Main (all remote participant mics in one track)
        
    • Video (.mp4 file)
      • 1080p HD video file will be provided for video recordings

Cost & Terms

The AV recording studio service is recharged at a flat rate of $150/hour.

• Rush Charge: AV requests with less than 48 business hours advance notice are billed at double time. AV may not be able to support emergency requests due to existing staff commitments.
• Equipment: The recording studio equipment is operated by IT AV Services staff only.
• Damaged Property: Requesters take full responsibility for replacing equipment/property that is damaged/lost/stolen during recording sessions.
• IT AV Support: It is required to have an AV technician present to start and end the recording session. A minimum charge of 1 hour applies. Due to staff limitations, AV staff cannot remain connected for the duration of recording sessions.

Still Need Help?

Contact the IT Help Desk during business hours (Mon-Fri, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm PT) for general questions.

• • • Chat IT Support: go.lbl.gov/itchat
    • Email: help@lbl.gov
    • Call: (510) 486-4357 (HELP)

Request a Recording Session