Frame rate refers to the frequency at which consecutive images, or frames, are displayed in a video sequence. It is typically measured in frames per second (fps) and determines the smoothness and perceived motion of the video.
In digital video, each frame consists of a snapshot of the scene at a particular moment in time. When these frames are played in rapid succession, the illusion of motion is created. The frame rate dictates how many frames are displayed per second, thus affecting the fluidity and realism of the motion portrayed in the video.
Common frame rates in digital video include:
24 fps: This frame rate is often used in cinema and is considered the standard for film production, providing a balance between motion smoothness and film production efficiency.
30 fps: A standard frame rate used in many broadcast television systems, including NTSC, and commonly seen in online video content.
60 fps: A higher frame rate commonly used in gaming, sports broadcasts, and some online video platforms to provide smoother motion and reduce motion blur, particularly in fast-paced scenes.
Higher frame rates can offer smoother motion and better clarity, especially for fast-moving scenes, but they also require more storage space and computational resources. Conversely, lower frame rates may result in choppier motion but require less storage and computational overhead.
The choice of frame rate depends on various factors such as the intended use of the video, the desired aesthetic, the target audience, and the capabilities of the display or playback device. Different applications may prioritize different frame rates to achieve the desired balance between motion smoothness, visual quality, and resource efficiency.