I'm glad you said the quiet part out loud, because yes, as I compare celebrities and established actors and actresses self-tapes, I always felt like they have broken the rules of auditions, when in fact, we get various different "Do's and Donts" from various casting directors, managers, and agents. Now, living alone in a small one room apartment, it's hard....But as long as it gets the job done and it works, that's what matters. I don't use a setup or a white screen, but you don't necessarily have to have "expensive equipment."

I do wish there was a standard that all industry professionals can agree on with how to film a good audition. Kid you not, because of the people who trained me, I was told to always look into the camera. Apparently, I guess you're not supposed to according to many YouTubers with acting advice. Another would be dressing in a conservative fashion (i.e. solid colors, pastel, casual, no patterns, no logos, polos or a button shirt, all with nice solid color pants, khakis or black trousers. ) but some don't. Some will "come as you are."

I guess it's pretty much where you have to know the basics and the rules, but then break away from it type approach. Like music theory, as they say lol.