The charm of 24fps videography
In a world obsessed with hyper-realistic, high frame rate video, there's a quiet rebellion brewing. It's a return to the classic, the cinematic: 24 frames per second. For nearly a century, 24fps has been the standard for film, and it's more than just a technical specification. It's a feeling.
Why does 24fps still resonate? It's not about perfect smoothness. Higher frame rates, like 60fps, deliver that. Instead, 24fps offers something different: a subtle, almost imperceptible, flicker. This flicker, often referred to as "motion blur," is what gives film its distinctive look. It softens the edges, creating a dreamlike quality that distances the viewer from reality, drawing them into the story.
Think about it. When you watch a movie, you're not just observing events. You're experiencing them through a particular lens. 24fps is part of that lens. It's a choice, a deliberate artistic decision that shapes how we perceive the narrative.
Of course, shooting at 24fps isn't just about pointing a camera and hitting record. It requires a certain understanding of light and movement. Fast action can appear choppy, so careful planning of shots is crucial. Shutter speed plays a vital role, too. A common rule is to set your shutter speed to double your frame rate, so for 24fps, you'd aim for 1/48th or 1/50th of a second. This helps achieve that characteristic motion blur.
The resurgence of 24fps isn't just nostalgia. It's a conscious choice by filmmakers and videographers who understand its power. It's a tool to create a specific mood, a specific aesthetic. In a world saturated with video, it's a way to stand out, to tell a story with a different voice.
So, the next time you're watching a film, take a moment to appreciate the subtle artistry of 24fps. It's more than just a frame rate. It's a feeling, a look, a language all its own. It's a reminder that sometimes, the most powerful tools are the ones that whisper, not shout. And in the quiet spaces between those 24 frames, a whole world of storytelling awaits.
