Last Updated 3 hours ago
Filmmaking Dictionary: Number 1 / 120 fps / 144 fps
Definition
120 fps and 144 fps are capture rates of 120 and 144 frames per second. When those frames play back more slowly, frame for frame, the action becomes slow motion. At the original capture rate, the action remains real-time.
Always state both capture and playback rate. The camera’s frame-rate setting alone does not tell the editor how fast the finished shot should move.
Calculating the Slowdown
- 120 fps played at 24 fps: One-fifth speed; one second of action lasts five seconds.
- 144 fps played at 24 fps: One-sixth speed; one second of action lasts six seconds.
- 120 fps played at 30 fps: One-quarter speed.
- 144 fps played at 30 fps: One second of action lasts 4.8 seconds.
Those examples use exact rates and frame-for-frame playback. Fractional rates such as 119.88 and 23.976, dropped frames or interpolation require their own interpretation. Check what the camera actually records.
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Shutter Time and Exposure
At a 180-degree shutter, exposure time is half the frame interval. That is approximately 1/240 second at 120 fps and 1/288 second at 144 fps. Compared with 24 fps at 180 degrees, the shorter exposure collects less light at unchanged aperture and illumination.
The crew may need more light, a different aperture or another exposure adjustment. Changing shutter angle also changes motion blur, so it should be chosen for the desired result rather than treated only as an exposure correction.
Camera-Mode Tradeoffs
A camera’s high-frame-rate mode can change resolution, sensor crop, codec, recording duration or audio behaviour. Some cameras write a file already conformed to a lower project rate; others store the high frame rate for interpretation later.
- Confirm the active sensor area and framing.
- Check recording media and data-rate requirements.
- Test the exact lighting and dimmer settings for flicker.
- Verify how the file appears in the editing software.
- Plan sound separately if the mode does not record usable synchronous audio.
Example on Set
A one-second splash recorded at 120 fps becomes a five-second shot at 24 fps. The timing allows the audience to see details of the movement, but the crew still needs the action, focus and lighting to work during that one real second.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does importing 120 fps into a 24 fps timeline always create slow motion?
No. Software may preserve real-time duration by dropping or resampling frames. Set the intended interpretation.
Will every LED be flicker-free at 144 fps?
No. Test the actual fixture, power and dimming settings with the intended shutter.
Related Terms
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