Complete Slow Motion Video Tutorial for Beginners

Introduction

• Speaker: Justin Brown from Primal Video
• Objective: Teach how to create slow motion videos using various cameras and editing software.
• Importance of slow motion: Enhances production quality and adds intrigue to videos.

Understanding Slow Motion

• Frames and Frame Rate:

  • Video comprises frames (photos) per second (fps).
  • Common frame rates:
    • 24 fps: Movies/Cinema
    • 25 fps: PAL regions (Australia, UK)
    • 30 fps: US and others

• Creating Slow Motion:

  • Requires capturing more frames per second than the standard rates.
  • Typical frame rates for slow motion: 120 fps, 240 fps, etc.
  • If shot at standard rates, slowing down footage can result in jittery motion.

How to Capture Slow Motion

1. Using Built-in Slow Motion Mode:

   • Access camera app, switch to slow motion mode.
   • Newer phones typically have better slow motion capabilities (higher frame rates).

2. Manual Frame Rate Adjustment:

   • Set camera to higher fps manually (e.g., 50, 60, 120 fps).
   • Most DSLRs/mirrorless cameras can achieve this.
   • Be cautious of resolution drops when using higher frame rates (e.g., 720p instead of 1080p).

3. Recording Audio with Higher Frame Rates:

   • Many devices still capture audio at 50/60 fps for regular playback.
   • Useful for cinematic effects while retaining normal speed playback.

Editing Slow Motion Footage

• Editing Software Settings:

  • Ensure project timeline is set to standard frame rates (25, 24, or 30 fps).
  • Import higher fps footage into the timeline to retain smooth slow motion.

• Speed Control:

  • Select clip in editing software and adjust speed (e.g., 50% for half-speed).
  • Avoid slowing down beyond 50% to prevent jitteriness.

• Interpreting Footage:

  • In Adobe Premiere, you can interpret footage to playback at desired fps.

Advanced Techniques

• Blended Frames:
  • For footage shot at lower frame rates, some software can create blended frames for smooth playback.
  • Adobe Premiere's "Optical Flow" analyzes footage to smooth out slow motion visuals.

Conclusion

• Start with built-in slow motion modes or higher frame rates for optimal slow motion results.
• Test optical flow in editing to achieve smooth slow motion effects.
• Free guide available for further video quality improvement tips.