In the past I've written many End Rants about how I expect recordists to treat their clients. But I've also stumbled across many online forums where I've see recording engineers and producers bitching about musicians and sessions. This End Rant is not me complaining about my sessions and clients. I have taught myself to communicate well and keep a good attitude. As a result I enjoy myself in the studio, even if it involves hard work. This Rant is for musicians heading into the studio, and how to get more out of recording sessions by treating their recordist with the same respect that they are (or should be) bringing to you. This is also not exclusive to "professional" studio situations; I've seen lots of abuse and confusion when a hobbyist opens their studio to a friend. So take note of this guide for any recording collaboration.
Set working hours, and stick to them. This allows everyone to plan for a life outside of the session. Hint: Shorter days will make people show up on time and stay to the end. Long, open-ended sessions frequently means sitting around for hours waiting for people to arrive.
Don't show up ridiculously early. I've had clients show up an hour before their scheduled time, wanting to start loading in, and asking me where to set up before I've even cleaned up the studio or had my coffee! You're basically asking for free studio time if you do this.
Don't continually ask your recordist if they like the material you are recording. The fact that they have already agreed to work on your music should be your answer.
When booking the session, ask what the recordists' preferred means of communication is. I prefer to book and prepare for my session via email, so I can keep a record of what we will be doing. Phone calls can be handy for sorting out an overall approach or needs of a session, but getting something written down helps. My personal worst is getting various phone calls, texts, Facebook messages, and emails for the same session, and never being able to collate the info in one place for my reference.
Work out financial details long before you enter the studio. Make sure you understand what the rates are, how to pay, and when money is due. Make sure you understand what a deposit means, if they have one, and what the terms are. If someone gives you a discount of any sort, note that and be appreciative, but do not request that discount on your next booking. The majority of discounts are on a case by case basis and are not meant to infer a new, lower set rate.