There is more nuance to frame rates than you could possibly imagine. Today I am excited to explain what a frame rate is, why it matters, and how to choose the right frame rate for your video project.
Frame rates, also known as frames per second or fps, is the number of images that are displayed in one second of video. Frame rate affects how smooth and realistic your video looks, as well as how much data and storage space your video requires.
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to what frame rate you should use for your video production. Different frame rates have different advantages and disadvantages in all stages of production and video editing, depending on your purpose, audience, and platform. Here are some of the most common frame rates and when to use them.
24 Frames Per Second
Often referred to as the "cinematic frame rate", 24 frames per second is a standard in filmmaking. This frame rate is widely used in movies and other narrative content because it creates a natural, film-like motion blur. The slightly slower frame rate compared to real life gives videos a cinematic feel. Many filmmakers prefer this frame rate for its aesthetic appeal, especially for dramatic or artistic projects.
One of the reasons 24 fps is favored in cinema is its historical significance. Early filmmakers like D.W. Griffith and Charlie Chaplin established this frame rate as the standard during the silent film era. Since then, 24 fps has remained deeply ingrained in the industry's culture and aesthetic sensibilities. It has become synonymous with the "look" of film, evoking a sense of nostalgia and authenticity for audiences.
While this frame rate is revered for its cinematic qualities, it's essential to acknowledge its limitations, particularly in the realm of digital media. Some argue that the relatively low frame rate can lead to motion artifacts or stuttering, especially in fast-paced action sequences or when viewing content on high-refresh-rate displays. However, advancements in technology, such as motion interpolation algorithms, have mitigated some of these issues, making 24 fps content more accessible and enjoyable to modern audiences.
While it may not be the ideal frame rate for every situation, its enduring legacy and artistic appeal continue to shape the way we experience and appreciate visual storytelling.
25 Frames Per Second
In regions that use the PAL television system, such as Australia, Europe and parts of Asia, 25 fps is the standard frame rate for broadcast television. Choosing this frame rate ensures compatibility with television broadcast standards in these regions. While it may not have the same cinematic quality as 24 fps, 25 fps still provides smooth motion for most video content and is suitable for a wide range of projects.
The adoption of 25 fps as the PAL television standard dates back to the early days of analog broadcasting. PAL (Phase Alternating Line) was introduced as a color television standard in the 1960s, and its frame rate of 25 fps was chosen to match the frequency of the AC power grid (50 Hz) in many European countries. This synchronisation helped reduce interference and flickering in televised images, ensuring a stable and consistent viewing experience for audiences.
Despite its technical origins, 25 fps has evolved into a versatile frame rate suitable for various video production applications. While it may lack the cinematic allure of 24 fps, it offers several practical advantages, especially in regions where PAL television standards prevail. Filmmakers and videographers working in these regions can seamlessly integrate 25 fps footage into broadcast television programming, commercials, and other video projects without worrying about compatibility issues.
29.97 Frames Per Second
Originally developed for compatibility with older analog television systems, 29.97 fps is commonly used in North America and some other regions. It can be a very confusing frame rate, as it's not exactly 30 fps but rather a compromise to match the frequency of the alternating current used in power systems. This frame rate is often used for television broadcasts, live events, and online videos where compatibility with older equipment is important.
The history of 29.97 fps is intertwined with the transition from analog to digital television broadcasting. In the early days of television, analog systems used interlaced video formats, which presented unique challenges for frame rate synchronisation. To accommodate the limitations of analog technology and maintain compatibility with existing standards, broadcasters in North America adopted the 29.97 fps frame rate.
Despite its technical origins, 29.97 fps continues to be a prevalent frame rate in contemporary video production. Many broadcasters and content creators in North America rely on this frame rate for live broadcasts, sports events, and other time-sensitive programming. Its compatibility with legacy equipment and established broadcast standards makes it a practical choice for ensuring seamless transmission and playback across various platforms.
30 Frames Per Second
Similar to 29.97 fps, 30 fps is commonly used for television broadcasts and online videos. It offers smooth motion and is well-suited for capturing fast-paced action. While it may lack the cinematic quality of 24 fps, 30 fps is a practical choice for many video projects, especially those intended for digital platforms where compatibility and smooth playback are crucial.
One of the advantages of 30 fps is its compatibility with common display refresh rates, such as 60 Hz. Since many digital displays refresh at a rate of 60 frames per second, videos encoded at 30 fps can be seamlessly displayed without the need for frame rate conversion or interpolation. This simplifies the playback process and ensures consistent motion across different devices and platforms.
While it may lack the aesthetic appeal of lower frame rates like 24 fps, it offers practical advantages for certain types of video content. Its compatibility with digital platforms and common display technologies makes it a versatile choice for a wide range of applications, from online streaming to broadcast television.
30 fps serves as a reliable and widely adopted frame rate for television broadcasts, online videos, and digital content creation. While it may not offer the same cinematic quality as lower frame rates, its compatibility and practical benefits make it a popular choice for modern video production.
50 Frames Per Second
The frame rate of 50 frames per second is commonly used in regions that adhere to the PAL television system. Sometimes, this frame rate is interlaced, which means that each frame is composed of two fields captured at different points in time.
One of the primary advantages of 50 fps, whether interlaced or progressive, is its ability to capture fast-moving subjects or scenes with exceptional clarity. Whether filming sports matches, wildlife pursuits, or high-speed activities, the higher frame rate ensures that every moment is captured with precision and fluidity. This makes it an invaluable tool for filmmakers and videographers seeking to convey the excitement and intensity of live events and fast-paced action sequences.
Furthermore, it offers practical benefits for post-production workflows and editing flexibility. The higher frame rate provides additional frames to work with, allowing editors to create smoother slow-motion effects or adjust the pacing and timing of a scene with greater precision. This can enhance the visual impact of the final video and contribute to a more immersive viewing experience for audiences.
While it may not be necessary for every video project, its ability to capture fast motion and detail makes it a valuable option for filmmakers and content creators seeking to elevate their productions.
59.94/60 Frames Per Second
The frame rate of 59.94 frames per second is a specific standard often used in digital video production, particularly in regions that adhere to the NTSC television system. While it might seem like a peculiar number, 59.94 fps is derived from the NTSC color television standard, which operates at approximately 29.97 frames per second. Due to technical considerations and the integration of color signals, the frame rate was effectively doubled to 59.94 fps, ensuring compatibility with existing broadcast infrastructure while delivering smoother motion and improved visual quality.
While 59.94 fps may be specific to certain broadcast standards and applications, the frame rate of 60 fps is also widely used in digital video production for different purposes. Whether filming high-quality video recordings, slow-motion sequences, or gaming content, 60 fps offers exceptionally smooth motion and enhanced detail. Its versatility and performance make it a valuable option for filmmakers and content creators seeking to push the boundaries of visual storytelling.
Did Someone Say Interlaced?
Just when you thought you had a grasp on frame rates, here comes interlacing. Imagine watching TV, and instead of seeing a full picture all at once, you're actually seeing every other line, alternating really fast. That's the essence of interlacing. It's an old-school technique used back in the day when TVs and video equipment were more limited. Even though it's a bit outdated, you might still come across it, especially if you're dealing with older equipment or television systems.
Now, why would anyone still use interlaced video in this day and age? Well, the thing is, it has its perks, even if they're a bit dated. For starters, interlacing helped save bandwidth back in the analog TV days. By showing every other line in each frame and then filling in the gaps with the next frame, broadcasters could deliver smoother motion without requiring extra data. It was like a clever workaround to make the most of limited technology.
But here's where it gets tricky. Interlacing can cause some unwanted visual issues, especially on modern TVs and digital displays. Ever noticed those weird lines or jagged edges when watching old DVDs or TV broadcasts? That's often because of interlacing. Since newer screens show images progressively (meaning they display the entire frame at once), interlaced video can look a bit weird when it's trying to fit into a progressive world.
So, why do people still deal with it? Well, sometimes you don't have a choice. Older equipment, legacy systems, or even certain types of content are still stuck in the interlaced era. Plus, converting interlaced video to progressive can be a hassle, and sometimes it's just not worth the effort, especially if you're dealing with a lot of footage.
It's Not Always Obvious
Sometimes there are multiple frame rates you could pick, and the correct answer is not always obvious. In fact, there's often not one correct answer. For example, you may want to create a video for the web and use a high frame rate such as 30 or 60 fps. But if you know you also want to use that video for local advertising within Australia, you'll be thinking you should use 25 fps instead. In this situation, if I was filming a video for almost any purpose at our headquarters here on the Gold Coast in Australia, I personally would opt to shoot at 25 or 50 progressive frames per second.
When selecting the frame rate for your video project, it's essential to consider the specific requirements and preferences of your target audience. Different frame rates may appeal to different viewers depending on their viewing habits, technological preferences, and cultural expectations. For example, younger audiences accustomed to high-definition gaming and streaming content may prefer higher frame rates for smoother motion and enhanced visual clarity.
Moreover, the distribution platform can significantly influence the choice of frame rate for your video project. Online streaming platforms like YouTube and Vimeo support a wide range of frame rates, allowing content creators to experiment with different frame rates to achieve the desired visual effect. However, broadcast television and cinema may have specific frame rate standards and requirements that must be met for compatibility and consistency.
But Can't I Convert Videos Between Different Frame Rates Later?
Yes, you can convert videos between different frame rates using video editing software or specialised conversion tools. However, there are drawbacks to consider. Converting between frame rates involves altering the temporal structure of the video, which can impact the smoothness of motion and the overall viewing experience, though even a cheap video editing company can take care of this for you.
One relatively straightforward method of frame rate conversion involves skipping or duplicating frames to match the target frame rate. For example, when converting from 60 fps to 30 fps, every other frame from the source video can be discarded to achieve the lower frame rate. This method is generally acceptable because the conversion ratio is exact, maintaining the temporal coherence of the video. Conversely, when converting from 30 fps to 60 fps, duplicating frames can fill in the gaps to achieve the higher frame rate.
However, not all frame rate conversions are equally ideal. Converting from 30 fps to 60 fps, interpolation methods may be used, which can result in smoother motion but may introduce visual artifacts due to the creation of additional frames. Even if you were to just duplicate each frame for a simple 30 to 60 fps conversion, as the original footage was not captured at the higher frame rate, the duplicated frames may not accurately represent the intended motion, leading to potential discrepancies in visual quality.
Conversely, converting between frame rates with significant disparities, such as 24 fps and 30 fps, can pose more significant challenges. The conversion ratio is not as straightforward, making it difficult to evenly distribute frames without altering the temporal structure of the video. In such cases, frame rate conversion may result in uneven motion, pacing issues, and visual inconsistencies that detract from the overall viewing experience. These types of conversions can also alter the perceived duration of the footage and affect the timing of audio synchronisation. You should carefully consider the implications of frame rate conversions on the overall viewing experience and aim to film your footage in the same frame rate you intend to publish it at.
So Filming at 50 FPS Should Be Fine for a 25 FPS Final Video?
Yes, your logic is correct, but there are other factors you need to consider. Many consumer cameras share very similar bitrates between their frame rate settings. Filming at 25 fps @ 100Mbps is much better than filming at 50 fps @ 100Mbps, because you are getting double the data rate per frame, which will result in a clearer, sharper image.
Although while considering the bitrate implications of filming at different frame rates is crucial, there is usually no issue with filming at 50 fps for a 25fps finished product, and there can be many advantages to doing so.
One significant advantage is the increased temporal resolution it provides. By capturing twice as many frames per second, it can result in smoother motion, especially in scenes with fast action or rapid movement. This higher temporal resolution allows for greater detail and clarity in each frame, enhancing the overall visual quality of the footage.
Moreover, filming at 50 fps offers greater flexibility in post-production workflows, particularly when it comes to editing and creating slow-motion effects. With twice as many frames to work with, editors can create smoother slow-motion sequences without sacrificing detail or introducing motion artifacts. This can be especially beneficial for capturing dynamic action sequences or emphasising key moments in the footage.
Additionally, filming at a higher frame rate can future-proof your footage for potential use in projects that require higher frame rates or formats. As technology continues to advance and higher frame rates become more prevalent, footage captured at 50 fps may be more versatile and compatible with future display standards and distribution platforms. This can extend the lifespan of your footage and ensure its relevance and usability in a rapidly evolving media landscape.
What About Shutter Speed/Angle?
The choice of shutter speed or shutter angle also plays a crucial role in determining the look and feel of your video footage. Shutter speed refers to the amount of time that each frame is exposed to light during the capture process. Shutter angle, on the other hand, is a term commonly used in filmmaking to describe the opening angle of a rotating shutter in a film camera, but generally these are used interchangeably and refer the same process.
The selection of shutter speed or angle can have a significant impact on the appearance of motion in your video footage. A faster shutter speed or smaller shutter angle results in less motion blur, making the movement appear sharper and more defined. This can be desirable for capturing fast-paced action or creating a stylised, "crisp" look in your videos.
Conversely, a slower shutter speed or wider shutter angle introduces more motion blur, giving the movement a smoother, more natural appearance. This can enhance the sense of fluidity and realism in your videos, particularly for scenes with slow or subtle motion.
When choosing the appropriate shutter speed or angle for your video project, consider the aesthetic effect you want to achieve and how it complements the overall visual style. For example, a fast-paced action sequence may benefit from a faster shutter speed to emphasise the intensity and clarity of the movement. On the other hand, a slow-motion sequence or romantic montage may benefit from a slower shutter speed to enhance the sense of fluidity and emotion.
It's also essential to consider the technical implications of your shutter settings, particularly in relation to frame rate. The 180-degree shutter rule, which suggests setting the shutter speed to double the frame rate, is commonly used in filmmaking to achieve a natural motion blur that closely resembles human vision. However, there are situations where you could benefit from breaking this rule, such as with sports coverage or visual effects.
So... What's The Best Frame Rate?
The answer is: it depends. It depends on your purpose, audience, and platform. You need to consider the following factors before deciding on your frame rate:
- What is the genre and style of your video? Is it cinematic, realistic, or stylised?
- What is the mood and tone of your video? Is it dramatic, comedic, or informative?
- What is the content and action of your video? Is it slow, fast, or varied?
- What is the target audience and platform of your video? Is it local, global, or specific?
- What is the budget and equipment of your video? Is it low, high, or medium?
There is no definitive answer to this question, and there is sometimes no one correct choice. Different frame rates have different pros and cons, and different effects and impacts. The most important thing is to experiment and test frame rates in your video production.
I hope you found this post helpful and informative. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave a comment below or send me an email. And if you need a professional video production company, don't hesitate to contact us here at Same Day Edits for our video editing services.
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