Frame Rate - Everything You Need To Know

Frame rate, measured in frames per second (fps), is a crucial aspect of visual media such as film and video games. It refers to the frequency at which consecutive images or frames are displayed in an animated display, determining how smoothly motion appears. A higher frame rate typically results in smoother motion representation, enhancing the viewer's experience. The history of frame rates can be traced back to early experiments in the late 1800s when capturing motion was challenging due to film sensitivity and camera mechanics limitations. The hand-cranking era (late 1800s - early 1900s) saw varying frame rates, typically ranging from 14 to 26 fps. Standardization occurred in the 1920s and 1930s with the introduction of sound to film, leading to the adoption of 24 fps as a standard for most films. The television influence (1940s - 1950s) brought regional differences in frame rates, while the digital age (1990s - present) enabled higher frame rates for smoother visual experiences. Frame rate matters significantly in film, video games, and other visual media due to its impact on motion smoothness, technical limitations, and viewer experience. The choice of frame rate is a critical aspect of both production and broadcasting in various media. While 24 fps is preferred for cinematic content, 60 fps or higher is better for gaming and action videos.