Please find archived CLVS articles below:
Digital Video, Part II - Postproduction
By Michael G. Gay, CLVS
In my last article (Digital Video, Part I, May 2006 JCR), my intent was to communicate the relevance of digital video in today’s legal video market. I also presented a brief discussion of the most common types of digital video cameras being used by contemporary legal videographers. This article is written as a general discussion on some of the new aspects of digital video that legal videographers will encounter when they enter the realm of digital recording.
DV - Digital Video, Part I
By Michael G. Gay, CLVS
I have been videotaping depositions since 1992. Over the years, I’ve incorporated many technical enhancements into the methods I use to record a deposition. The most significant enhancement has been converting from an analog recording format to a digital recording format. Replacing my VHS/S-VHS camcorder with a digital camcorder by far has been the most distinct quality enhancement I have made.
Audio Monitoring and Unity Gain
by Wayne V. Martin, CLVS
When monitoring audio, the use of both headphones and V.U. (volume unit) meters at each component of the audio chain will help ensure a quality audio program. During a deposition, listening through headphones is the best way to monitor audio quality and detect noises, buzzes and interference. V.U. meters give you an accurate visual indication of the level of your audio signal. They also help to detect excessive level and loss of signal.
Beware Of That Background Noise !
by Tom Liebmann, CLVS
I have to admit that the first time I encountered this phenomenon, I didn't bring it to the attention of my client. We were at a doctor's office in a center city high-rise, and I was set up and ready to go after running a successful test of my video equipment. When all the parties entered the room and were ready to start, I began to read the introduction. Everything was smooth until I placed the headphones on.
Case of the Missing Videographer, The
by Denise Doucette, RDR, CLVS
I've been a court reporter for a number of years now (please don't ask), and since I specialize in complex and technical litigation, I've reported more than my share of videotaped depositions. Although the vast majority of videographers I've worked with have been thorough professionals, there have been a notable few who have managed to annoy and amaze me with their behavior.
Clutter and the Cross Table Shot
by Robert S. Mac Tavish, CLVS
More and more items are showing up on the conference room table these days, competing for space and spoiling your clear shot of the witness. Laptops, cables, documents, cups and carafes accumulate when you shoot down the length of the table. Setting up to shoot across the table minimizes the clutter and works well in most situations.
Court Ruling for Certified Videographers
Louisiana's Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals reversed a ruling by a District Court judge and declared that a professional videographer was required when a party wished to have a deposition videotaped. In a medical malpractice case, the plaintiffs gave notice of a "videotape" deposition. At the time of the deposition, the defendants discovered that the plaintiff's attorney intended to have a staff member videotape the deposition. A court reporter was present as required under Louisiana law.
Don't Forget Your Light Kit!
by Tom Liebmann, CLVS
Even though most offices are brightly lit and new technology provides cameras that are excellent in low-light situations, I hope all video operators are including a lighting system in their deposition kits.
Hats Off To A Great Committee Member!!!
by Debbie Kriegshauser, CLVS
How can words describe a person who has devoted so many hours of her time and talent to the Certified Legal Video Specialist Program? With deep regret, I'm sure, NCRA has accepted the resignation of Denise Doucette from the CLVS Committee.
Keeping Your Cool Is The Name Of The Game
by Tom Liebmann, CLVS
As a Certified Legal Video Specialist, we have all encountered at least one unfriendly person in attendance at a deposition. In some cases the unfriendliness turns to hostility directed to you simply because you were hired by an opposing side.
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Starting A Video Production Business: The Mistakes People Make
If you are just starting your own video business we want you to know some of the pitfalls to avoid. Even if you are experienced, read the list of the eight biggest mistakes made when people start video production companies and see if you have made any of these mistakes.
Trying To Promote Your Business?
by Debbie Kriegshauser, CLVS
Debbie Kriegshauser shares tips on how to get your name out there in the local community and get the edge on your competition.
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Video Settlement Documentaries
by Frederick S. Aumick, CLVS
A Video Settlement Documentary (VSD)is a highly effective video documentary specifically designed to convey the most important facts about a case. It is produced in a documentary style similar to what is seen on broadcast TV, with the exception that there is no on-screen talent; the cohesive thread is the off-screen narrator. Its purpose is to convey the most important facts about a case, thereby hopefully to persuade the adversary to settle the case promptly. It is a synopsis of what counsel intends to produce at trial and can explore issues of liability, damages, or both.
Videotaping the Interpreted Deposition
by Robert MacTavish, CLVS
If English is not spoken by a deponent, an interpreter will be brought in to participate in the deposition. An experienced legal videographer can set up keeping the interest of all parties in mind.
View From Behind the Camera, A
by Thomas W. Olender
Why use video as a complement to the reporter's transcript while deposing the "Big Three" during the Clinton impeachment trial? Because without it there would be no body language or facial expressions to observe. Savvy attorneys are very much aware of how seeing a witness's facial expression, long pauses, signs of fear, agitation, anger, etc., can convey the true message behind the spoken and transcribed words.
Written Record is Key to New Technology, The
by Brian Clune, CLVS
A video deposition is a record of much more than the spoken word. When videotape is brought into the deposition process additional communication of inflection and demeanor are captured along with the testimony. This, in part, is why attorneys are turning to videotape more often than ever before.