U.S. Figure Skating has created the Virtual Testing Video Recording and Upload Instructions. This document provides specific information about filming a skating test and naming it. This document is also included in the virtual test packet. Be sure to read this document in its entirety. Test chairs may reject (with no refund) any videos that do not meet U.S. Figure Skating specifications. Some key things to keep in mind:
- Film the test within 14 days of the video submission deadline. Note that this date will be after the registration deadline but before the test session date.
- No more than eight other skaters can be on the ice during a test
- Record the audio. It’s OK for background music or noise to be audible during a skating skills test as long as it’s not too loud.
- Before beginning the test, the skater must hold up a placard showing their name, the test they’re taking, the club hosting the virtual test, and the date of the virtual test
- Show the date (month and day) and time at the beginning of the video by recording a mobile device that shows the date and time. The date must include both the month and day (i.e. March 15).
Although there may be up to eight other skaters on the ice during the filming of a test, ideally only the skater being filmed will be on the ice. Fortunately, there are usually plenty of opportunities to film with very few, if any, other skaters on the ice. The best times tend to be as follows (please check with rink staff before planning to film during any of these times to make sure there aren’t any conflicts:)
- Immediately after the Wednesday night club ice (except during hockey season)
- Before the Saturday morning freestyle session
- Immediately after the Sunday night freestyle session (except during hockey season)
- Any weekday before the public session begins (usually 3:00pm)
Please note that no one may film virtual tests during freestyle or club ice sessions. However, skaters will have the opportunity to sign up for ice time specifically dedicated to filming. The club will arrange for this time in the weeks prior to virtual test sessions offered by CFSC.