USFSA has created a document with specific information and instructions on how to video a skating test and how to name it. This document can be found here and is also included in the virtual test packet. Be sure to read this document in its entirety as any videos that do not meet USFSA specifications can be rejected with no refund. Some key things to keep in mind:
- The test must be filmed within 14 days of the submission deadline (note that this date is often after the registration deadline but before the test date)
- No more than 8 other skaters can be on the ice during a test
- Audio must be recorded – 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
- A date (month and day) and time stamp must be clearly shown at the beginning of the video by recording a mobile device that shows the date and time, and the date must include both the month and day (i.e. March 15)
Although there may be up to 8 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:
- At the end of or just after the Wednesday evening club ice (except during hockey season)
- Before the Saturday morning freestyle session
- At the end of or just after the Sunday evening freestyle session (except during hockey season)
- Any weekday before the public session begins (usually 3:00pm)