How to Use Demonstrative Exhibits in Video Deposition

When creating a video deposition, it is worth putting some time into planning for the display of exhibits, especially when planning to display the video later in the courtroom. Below are a few simple tips from Trial Exhibits’ experienced Videographers.

• Be conscious of the size of exhibits

If the demonstrative or exhibit is of particular import to the case, consider mounting the image on a trial board. This will allow the Videographer to zoom in on the board while your witness educates the jury, just like he/she would in the courtroom. This will be more effective than having the witness hold up an 8 1/2″ by 11″ sheet of paper, restricting the witness’s range of motion.

• Be careful with laminated trial boards

Lamination may reflect the light from the room and a great exhibit could become a washed out white image on video. If your boards are laminated, make sure you check the view of the board from the camera before taping.

• Consider using electronic exhibits

As firms go paperless, the need to bring boxes of documents to deposition is being eliminated. Consider using an IPad or another tablet to display exhibits to the witness. Keep in mind that you will need to bring an additional monitor, projector, or TV to display the images the witness is viewing.

• Plan for the creation of “picture-in-picture” video

If you need an interactive exhibit showing the witness and the exhibit he/she is simultaneously marking, Trial Exhibits’ Videographers recommend that you plan ahead by requesting your Videographer use “picture-in-picture” technology during the deposition, or plan to edit the deposition prior to trial.