Kelly Hughes Video Depositions
PO box 170 Barker TX 77413
713-376-6590
Experience
I developed and ran the video department of a local court reporting firm, and for the three years there, I was the primary shooter. I left that position because the company was sold and moved out of state.
Technique
My kit is designed so that all devices form a single chain, with audio and video monitored at the end of the chain. This makes it nearly impossible to unknowingly make a recording with missing audio or video. (diagram)
I use only wired microphones, so reception and noise problems are minimized. I have extra mics and a mixer with six XLR inputs so I can mic a telephone or extra attendees.
I deliver DVD masters exclusively, to avoid quality problems associated with magnetic tapes and head alignment. I record directly to redundant hard drives and masters are dubbed to discs after the deposition, so the occasional "coaster" won't cause a problem mid-depo.
I record in both SP (2hr) and LP (4hr) modes at the same time. Depos over 2 hours will be delivered on both SP and LP discs at no extra charge. This gives you the option to give your clients a single DVD of the depo without having to re-encode (up to 4 hrs 22 mins on one disc). I keep backups of all my depos in SP mode for jobs under 2 hours, and LP mode for jobs over 2 hrs. Getting another copy of my backup is always free.
I continuously monitor the deposition in headphones to be certain every question and answer is intelligible. I adjust audio levels as needed throughout the depo, and always avoid clipping. I won't let the witness drift out of frame.
As a convenience for the court reporter, I record audio on standard cassettes (always new) and can also record in digital MP3/WAV format, available at the conclusion of the deposition on SD flash cards or transferable over USB. Line level audio output is available for the reporter's equipment.
Additional Notes
I carry an extensive set of backup equipment, in case of field failures. This includes another pro-grade 3CCD camcorder, audio mixing console, mics, Marantz cassette deck, and a spare TV monitor.My equipment remains pre-wired on my cart, reducing setup to about ten minutes. The equipment platform is removable, in case there isn't room for the cart in the conference room.
I take scheduling very seriously. Once I accept a job, I'm committed to it. If an offer from another firm comes along, I won't drop the job back in your lap at the last minute.
I don't work directly for attorneys, so I have no incentive to "poach" your clients. I'm a notary, so I'm qualified to administer non-steno depositions.
Pricing
Shoots: $60 per hour, with two hour minimum. No travel charge within 25 miles of downtown Houston. I will travel with fees negotiable.
Equipment
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