Slow motion is created by recording more frames per second than the playback frame rate. When those extra frames are played back at a lower rate, the action takes longer on screen. Canon explains that recording at a higher shooting frame rate than the selected playback frame rate produces a slow-motion effect. files.canon-europe.com

For example, footage recorded at 50 frames per second and played back at 25 frames per second takes twice as long to play, creating half-speed motion.

Choose a recording rate before the shoot

First decide how slow you want the action to appear and what frame rate your project uses. Then check whether your camera supports the needed recording rate at the resolution and recording mode you want.

Options vary by camera. Some models restrict high-frame-rate recording to particular resolutions or crop the image. Others may stop recording audio or limit clip duration in slow-motion modes. Check the manual and test the camera before filming an important moment.

Remember that sound is affected too

If the camera conforms high-frame-rate footage to a lower playback rate, audio may be omitted or altered by the camera’s slow-motion mode. Record sound separately if you need natural-speed dialogue or ambience, then synchronise it in the edit.

The relationship between frame rate and shutter settings also affects motion blur. RouteNote’s 180-degree shutter rule guide explains the common starting point. For the finished sequence, browse RouteNote Licensing for music and sound effects.