Last Updated 3 hours ago
Filmmaking Dictionary: Number 6 / 60 fps
Definition
60 fps means sixty complete frames per second when the term is used precisely. It can describe the camera’s capture rate, the playback rate or both. Recording and displaying sixty frames each second produces real-time movement with frequent motion samples.
In practice, some equipment and informal descriptions use ’60’ as shorthand for 59.94 fps. Those rates are close but distinct. Check the actual format when synchronizing devices, working with external audio or meeting a delivery specification.
Real Time Versus Slow Motion
A clip recorded at true 60 fps and played at true 60 fps lasts the same amount of time as the original action. Playing all of its frames at 30 fps doubles the duration and gives half-speed motion. Playing them at 24 fps gives 40% speed.
Dropping a 60 fps clip into a lower-rate timeline does not always create slow motion automatically. The editing application may preserve real-time duration by discarding or blending frames. Intentional slow motion requires the correct interpretation or speed setting.
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Shutter Considerations
- A 180-degree shutter at true 60 fps gives approximately 1/120 second.
- That shorter exposure records less motion blur per captured frame than 1/48 second at 24 fps.
- Maintaining the same brightness may require a change to aperture, lighting or camera settings.
- Short exposures can expose flicker or banding from lights and screens.
Example in Production
A crew records a product splash at 60 fps for a 24 fps commercial. Conforming the footage to 24 fps makes the splash last two and a half times as long. The lighting test should use the intended high-speed setting because a fixture that looks clean at normal speed may behave differently.
For dialogue or live events, decide whether the footage must remain real time and whether synchronized audio is required. Some off-speed camera modes change clip playback automatically or omit audio, even when another ordinary 60p recording mode supports it.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 60 fps always more cinematic?
No. Motion cadence is a creative and delivery choice. Higher frame rates create a different appearance rather than an automatic improvement.
Can true 60 and 59.94 footage be mixed?
Yes, with a deliberate conversion or conforming workflow. Treating them as identical can introduce timing problems over long recordings.
Related Terms
Browse all terms starting with 6 or return to the filmmaking dictionary.