What Is Frame Rate, and Why Does It Matter?

In video production, frame rate refers to the frequency at which still images or frames are displayed per second. It is commonly measured in frames per second (fps). The higher the frame rate, the smoother the video appears to the viewer.

The significance of frame rate lies in its impact on the overall quality of the video. A low frame rate can cause the video to appear choppy or stutter, making it difficult to watch. Conversely, a high frame rate can produce a smooth and realistic video that is more enjoyable to watch.

Frame rate is significant for specific applications, such as gaming and sports broadcasting. In gaming, a high frame rate can provide a more immersive and responsive experience for the player (a monitor with a high refresh rate will further improve your video game experience). In sports broadcasting, a high frame rate captures fast-moving action more clearly and accurately.

It’s worth noting that a higher frame rate in video requires more processing power and can result in larger file sizes. Read on to find out what is fps and how to choose the correct frame rate for your video content. 

What Is the Definition of Frame Rate for Video, or Fps?

Frame rate, or frames per second (fps), is the frequency at which individual images, or individual frames, are displayed in a video. It represents the number of individual frames displayed each second. As a rule, the higher the fps, the more fluid and motion-smooth the video appears to the viewer. 

In video production, the standard frame rates are typically 24 fps for cinematic productions, 30 fps for video productions, and higher frame rates such as 60 fps, 120 fps, or 240 fps for slow-motion or high-speed video. The choice of frame rate can affect the overall quality of the video, the file size, and the viewing experience.

Key Types of Standard Frame Rates

Some of the standard frame rates commonly used in video production and playback include:

Cinematic Standard: 24 Fps

The film industry’s cinematic standard frame rate of 24 fps is the most commonly used. This frame rate for movies has been used for many years and provides a traditional, cinematic feel to the footage.

Footage at 24 fps has a natural motion blur that is pleasing to the viewer’s eye and has become a common part of the cinema experience. Many filmmakers choose 24 fps for its organic and authentic feel. While it is not as smooth as higher frame rates, it is more forgiving of imperfections in the footage and can help create an immersive and engaging story.

Video Standard: 30 Fps

The video standard frame rate of 30 fps is commonly used in production, including online videos, television shows, and other shows that do not require the traditional cinematic feel. This frame rate provides a smoother and more realistic look and is generally easier to edit than higher frame rates. It has become the standard for most non-cinematic productions and has a familiar look to audiences. Thirty fps provides a stable and consistent visual experience and is ideal for capturing fast movement with clarity and detail.

Slow-Motion Video Standards: 60 Fps, 120 Fps, and 240 Fps 

Slow-motion video standards vary from 60 fps to 240 fps, and they are used to capture high-speed action and sports events or to create special effects in movies and commercials. By capturing more frames per second, you can produce crisp slow-motion footage, allowing the viewer to see enhanced detail and action. 

60 fps is commonly used for action scenes in films or documentaries, while 120 fps works for high-speed events like sports games. 240 fps is the frame rate if you’re targeting extreme slow-motion shots and special effects. These frame rates help create an immersive experience with their detail, making them ideal for quick action and standout visuals.

Differences Between Shutter Speed, Shutter Angle, and Frame Rates

Shutter speed, shutter angle, and frame rate are all crucial settings in video production that can affect the look and feel of the final video. While they are related, there are important differences between these settings.

Shutter speed: Shutter speed refers to the length of time that the camera’s shutter remains open, allowing light to hit the camera’s sensor or film. In video production, shutter speed is typically measured as a fraction of a second, such as 1/50 or 1/100. A faster shutter speed can help freeze motion and create a sharper image, while a slower shutter speed can create a more blurred or smooth illusion of motion.

Shutter angle: Shutter angle refers to the angle of rotation of a physical shutter and is a term commonly used with video cameras. A larger shutter angle means that the shutter is open for a longer time, allowing more light to hit the film. Shutter angle is related to shutter speed; these two factors can be converted into one another using a mathematical formula.

Frame rate: Frame rate refers to the number of individual frames or images captured and displayed per second in a video. A higher frame rate can provide a smoother, more realistic video and requires more processing power and storage space. Standard frame rates include 24 fps, 30 fps, 60 fps, and 120 fps.

In summary, shutter speed and angle control the amount of light hitting the camera sensor or film, while frame rate controls the number of consecutive images captured per second. They all affect the look and feel of the final video, and understanding the differences between them can help you make informed decisions when setting up your camera for video production.

Why Is Frame Rate in Video So Important?

Frame rate is an essential consideration in video production because it affects the overall quality and realism of the video, as well as the time it takes to upload or export the video and how special effects are added. Here is how frame rate impacts several aspects of the final video:

It Impacts How Realistic Your Video Is

Frame rate impacts the overall realism of the video. A higher frame rate can make the video appear more fluid and lifelike, while a lower frame rate can make the video appear choppy and less realistic. This is particularly relevant for action scenes or fast-moving objects, where a higher frame rate can capture more detail.

It Impacts How Fast Your File Upload and Export Times Are

The frame rate can also impact the file size of the video recordings, affecting how long it takes to upload or export the video. Higher frame rates require more data, which results in larger file sizes and longer upload or export times. Consider this when uploading media to online video platforms or social media, where users may have limited bandwidth or storage space.

It Impacts How You Add Effects to Your Videos

Frame rate also impacts how your video incorporates special effects. Many effects, such as slow motion or time-lapse, rely on manipulating the frame rate to create the desired result. Selecting the correct frame rate is crucial for achieving the desired look and feel of the video.

Find the Best Effects for Your Video Project No Matter the Frame Frequency

The frame frequency is an essential aspect of video production that contributes to the overall quality of the footage. Different frame rates are used for different video productions.

Regardless of the frame frequency, no matter what your project is or which frame rate you’re using, your video project deserves the best effects. From sound effects to musical tracks, stockmusic.net has a vast array of royalty-free assets to help bring your video project to life. 

So, if you’re in need of some magical movie music and sound effects for your video production, be sure to check out our library for high-quality, royalty-free assets that will help your project sound incredible!