What is frame rate (fps)?
Video is basically a sequence of still images put together and played back at a fast rate. So frame rate refers to the number of still pictures (or frames) that will be captured to make up one second of footage. Consequently, frame rate is also referred to as FPS (frames per second). And the faster the frame rate, the more images will be taken.
What are the frame rate options?
There are two sets of frame rates: one set for PAL and one for NTSC. Europe and parts of Asia use PAL. On the other hand most countries in North and South America, such as the United States, use NTSC. The frame rates of NTSC and PAL differ so if you’re looking for 50 fps (PAL) and it’s not listed as an option on your camera, you may be in NTSC mode.
Listed below are typical frame rate options. Note that these frame rates may be offered in variable recording sizes and compressions. Many cameras will offer additional options besides the standards ones listed below.
| NTSC | PAL |
|---|---|
| 60 fps | 50 fps |
| 30 fps | 25 fps |
| 24 fps | 24 fps |
While whole numbers are displayed for NTSC frame rates, they may actually represent fractional frame rates. For example, 30 is actually 29.97 and 24 is actually 23.98. The fractional frame rates are used to be compatible with electricity, color, and a whole bunch of other technical specs that are beyond the range of my understanding.
Tip #1: Use 24 fps for movies.
Videos shot at 24 frames per second produce natural motion, and cinematic movies are almost exclusively and globally shot at 24 fps. So if you want a film look it’s best to choose 24 fps.
Tip 2: Use 24 fps for the web.
Videos shot with 24 frames per second will naturally be smaller in storage size compared to those shot with a higher frame rate. However, video quality will still remain high. Smaller file sizes mean faster downloads and less storage space needed, which is always a plus for web work.
Tip 3: Use 30 fps/25 fps for television work
Television broadcast work is usually shot in 30 frames per second (29.97) for NTSC and 25 for PAL. So if your final product is for broadcast, it’s best to shoot at these frame rates. At 30 fps there’s less motion blur than 24 fps, which will make the footage appear more realistic and less cinematic.
Tip 4: Use 50/60 fps and higher for slow motion videos
50 & 60 fps or higher are generally used for special effects such as slow motion. Film makers overcrank, that is, shoot a faster frame rate than what is needed, so that they can slow the footage down to say 24 fps to produce a nice slow motion effect. At 60 fps, moving subjects are sharper and more crisp and gives a sense of hyper reality. However, this frame rate may be good for sports or action shots. Your shutter speed settings will also determine the motion blur of your footage.
Confused between frame rate and shutter speed? Find out the difference between shutter speed and frame rate.
