Shooting slow motion video that looks smooth

Slow motion stretches a moment and reveals details invisible at normal speed: water drops, hair moving, a dancer’s skirt, a dog running.

Frame rates

• 60 fps: 40 percent speed on a 24 fps timeline, subtle slow motion
• 120 fps: 20 percent speed, dramatic slow motion
• Higher rates in S&Q mode on Sony cameras for special effects

Shutter speed

Double the frame rate: 1/125 for 60 fps, 1/250 for 120 fps. This requires more light.

Light

High frame rates darken the image. Shoot outdoors or add strong continuous lights indoors. Avoid flickering LEDs and fluorescents.

Best subjects

Water, fabric, hair, confetti, sparks, dancing, sports, pouring drinks and animals.

Movement

Combine slow motion with slow camera moves for a dreamy look, or keep the camera still to emphasize the subject’s motion.

Use it sparingly

Slow motion is powerful because it contrasts with normal speed. Too much becomes tiring.

Audio

Slow-motion clips have no usable audio. Plan to cover them with music or sound design.