In a nutshell what is high frame rate?

In film and video, the actual image is made up of pictures (frames) put together to make the moving image.

With the continued development of cameras there have been different frame rates used, but the average rate is 25 frames per second (or fps) in UK and Europe which is slightly slower than America’s average of 29.97 frames per second. As a client-focused film and video production company based in the UK, we usually film at 25 fps.

Graphic of various DSLR photography cameras.


High frame rate generally refers to any camera which captures image at a higher rate than 30 frames per second.  The average DSLR camera on video mode can shoot at 60fps but higher end cameras can go much higher.

A broadcast style camera, often used for sports slow motion, can go to 250 fps and above. Some extremely high end laboratory cameras have recorded 1 trillion frames per second.  The human eye can only register up to 60 frames per second, so anything higher is only useful when being broken down for slow motion analysis

What specialist equipment, expertise or processes are involved?

The only equipment required is an appropriate camera that captures to the frame rate you desire.  One thing to bear in mind, is what you are trying to achieve, the ultimate end goal?  For example,  the quicker your subject the higher frame rate you will need.  As for expertise,  high frame rate video is filmed in the same way you would film at any other frame rate, so a trained camera operator is all that’s necessary.

In terms of post production process, there is no difference between high and standard frame rate, though some cameras will not allow you to view the recorded footage in slow motion.  In these cases,  video editing software is needed which will support your footage and slow it down in post production.

Why should I consider using high frame rate in my video production?

Slow motion (high frame rate) gets used in many different ways throughout video production.  Key examples include sports coverage, where slow motion replays are vital to following the action.  Many narrative films or music videos have utilised slow motion to evoke an emotional response, or add drama to the scene.

In the corporate video production world, slow motion can be used for showing how fast-moving machines work, their processes unable to be fully appreciated by the naked eye.  Or, as with narrative videos, it can be used stylistically to highlight a particular skill or point, as seen in this music video, produced by Slinky Productions.

When wouldn’t high frame be ideal for my video production?

Basically if you are not planning on using slow motion in your video you shouldn’t use high frame rate.  Depending on the camera, if it records in a higher frame rate it can come straight out of the camera in slow motion, distorting your audio.  High frame rate should never be used for an interview, or anything that involves people talking.

If you are a promotional video company creating product videos – for the likes of food products, or technical moving parts – then shooting at a higher frame rate can enhance and showcase the product ‘splashing’ or ‘riveting’ in a wonderful, stylised creative way…. think of McDonalds with their burgers falling down, forming in the delicious slow-mo way!

Video camera filming at large sports events.

In Summary

High frame rate is a very useful tool but it should only be used when it is needed.  It can add a great deal of production value as well as being a helpful  dramatic tool for narrative films. If you would like more information on this please follow these links below.

Useful links

Wikiapedia – High Frame Rate

Red 101 – High Frame Rate Video