Jay Wertzberger

Legal Videographer

[Jay Wertzberger @jaytv]

After videotaping volumes of a deposition, you appreciate why attorneys want the video. For only they can resolve what we as people cannot.

[Jay Wertzberger @jaytv]

Socializing at work, and working on socializing, can solidify business relationships. But sometimes, the marketing can go way overboard.

[Jay Wertzberger @jaytv]

Clients usually ask for your opinion after the deposition, and you may find it very difficult not to share it with them. What will you say?

[Jay Wertzberger @jaytv]

Sometimes you will know in the moment that you are recording a video portion that will be played at trial. Make sure it is of high quality.

[Jay Wertzberger @jaytv]

Getting good clients is difficult, and losing them is hard. If a client wishes to change vendors, respect their decision and learn from it.

[Jay Wertzberger @jaytv]

To sync a video with a transcript, you need the ASCII from the reporter. The question is: Do you pay the reporter for the file and how much?

[Jay Wertzberger @jaytv]

After a timely arrival, a smooth set up, an accurate read on, all decks working, and time to reflect, you've got to be thankful for the job.

[Jay Wertzberger @jaytv]

Lavalier microphones get pulled and yanked. When the cable starts splitting, apply Insulating Coating and let it dry overnight. Good as new!

[Jay Wertzberger @jaytv]

You can't please everybody all the time, and sometimes you're just making
things worse. Keep your mouth shut and keep the video rolling.

[Jay Wertzberger @jaytv]

Try not to put equipment on the conference room table. It's bad for the table and the client. Use industrial cases and racks or an A/V cart.

[Jay Wertzberger @jaytv]

Keep spare media in your car. A disc is unreadable, a tape is NG, the depo goes forever, or the examiner wants a tape change at every break.

[Jay Wertzberger @jaytv]

Even if the lighting is terrible and the deponent is wearing all white, if you concentrate on picking up good skin tones you will be fine.

[Jay Wertzberger @jaytv]

Time spent waiting after noticed start time, or when ready while others return from agreed upon lunch break, is considered billable time.

[Jay Wertzberger @jaytv]

KNOW THE LAW: CCP 2025.220(a)(6):"to use at trial a video...of a treating physician...or any expert...video operator has to be( a notary )."

[Jay Wertzberger @jaytv]

It can be frustrating if a deponent moves around a lot and talks quiet. Be attentive to your audio levels and interrupt only when necessary.

[Jay Wertzberger @jaytv]

If you just parked at an unfamiliar location, double check the address before unloading all your equipment. You might be in for a surprise.

[Jay Wertzberger @jaytv]

Caution: Booking jobs more in advance is common as the holidays approach; when calendars get complex with add-ons and last minute changes.

[Jay Wertzberger @jaytv]

Buying used equipment online is an inexpensive way to improve your kit and learn about other gear. Acquire items that enhance your skills.

[Jay Wertzberger @jaytv]

Like it or not, reporters do rely on you to provide an extra set of headphones, or at least an extension cable with a 3.5 mm headphone jack.

[Jay Wertzberger @jaytv]

Baud rates, ports, and different software. If you can help troubleshoot a LiveNote hookup, the reporter may appreciate your able assistance.