Agree a written file list before the recording: the audio sources, video sources and any finished exports your project requires. “The podcast files” can mean different things to a host, studio operator and editor.
The Finchley booking page lists cloud delivery within three days for Dialogue and Lounge Gold and Platinum bookings. That tells you the delivery method and timing; it does not settle every file type or editing requirement.
Understand the main file categories
| File category | What it means for your production |
|---|---|
| Separate microphone tracks | Each recorded voice can be handled individually in the edit |
| Combined audio mix | Voices have already been combined into one listening mix |
| Individual camera recordings | Separate views remain available for the video edit |
| Switched programme recording | Camera choices made during the session appear in one sequence |
| Finished episode exports | Agreed edited versions intended for distribution |
| Editing project | The editor's working arrangement, which also depends on its linked media |
An individual camera recording is often called an ISO. Blackmagic's ISO recording specifications illustrate the distinction between clean input recordings and a programme recording. Confirm whether your selected production supplies those sources rather than assuming a switcher records every camera separately.
Start with the editor's needs
If someone else will edit, ask them for the required video resolution, frame rate, file format, audio arrangement and any colour-work requirements. Send that brief before the booking is finalised.
Ask whether a supplied example file would help them check compatibility. A familiar filename extension alone may not describe the complete recording format.
Explain how the episode will be used. An audio-only release, full-length video and vertically framed extracts may need different source coverage and exports. Capturing footage does not automatically include creating all those versions.
Separate raw recordings from finished assets
Original recordings may contain pauses, false starts, checks and material that should not be published. Receiving them is the beginning of editing, rather than confirmation that the episode is ready for an audience.
List editing, captions, titles, music, graphics, thumbnails and social clips separately if you need them. Finchley offers editing packages; agree the scope and review process for the actual job.
Also ask whether a project file is included when relevant. A finished video does not contain the editor's full working timeline, and a project file without its linked media may not be a complete handover.
Write a simple delivery specification
A useful brief might say:
Our editor needs separate recordings for the agreed microphones and camera views, plus a reference of any live camera switching. Please confirm the available formats and whether these sources are included. Finished episode editing will be handled separately.
This is an example request, not a standard Finchley inclusion list. Adapt it to the outputs you actually need.
Name the delivery contact and confirm how they will receive access. If different people handle editing and publication, make their responsibilities explicit.
Check the delivery promptly
Compare the files with the agreed list. Open the material, listen to every voice and check video playback near the beginning, middle and end. Flag a missing source or unexpected format promptly, keeping the original filenames available when discussing a problem.
Keep your own copies after checking the delivery; the studio's backup period is a separate service.
To agree the capture and files for your next session, choose your Finchley recording package and send the editor's requirements before recording starts.
- Recording Deliverables
- Podcast Files
- Editor Handover
