Recently, I recorded a video of myself playing an instrument for the Common App Arts Supplement and I submitted the video. However, my mother is concerned that the location in which I filmed myself isn’t very sophisticated or nice. I played in front of my family’s Christmas tree, and you can see a carpet hallway leading to the front door of my home. I also played at night, so I had to use some extra lighting to brighten the video up. Does the setting of the arts supplement video factor into the assessment of the artistic performance? For example, my mom says that I should’ve played during the day, so that there would be more light and it would look nicer. Would that have had any impact on how my performance is perceived? (My mom is really mad at me, so I’m hoping that y’all will tell me that any changes in setting wouldn’t have had an effect.)
As long as your playing can be heard, it shouldn’t be an issue.
By the way, what instrument do you play?
I can’t imagine that would have an effect. momfromme is right, and I’d also add that it would probably help if your hands were visible so they can assess your technique. Tell your mom that it’s fine - “looking nice” isn’t the point, it’s sounding nice that really matters 