In video editing, a frame is essentially a single, still image that, when shown rapidly in sequence with others, creates the illusion of motion.
Understanding the Frame
As in filmmaking, video production, and animation, a frame is one of the many still images which compose the complete moving picture. Think of it like a single photograph in a series of hundreds or thousands. When these photographs are displayed one after another very quickly, your brain perceives smooth movement.
The term itself is derived from the historical development of film stock, in which the sequentially recorded single images look like a framed picture when examined individually. This historical context highlights how the concept of a frame as a distinct, individual image has been fundamental to moving pictures from the very beginning.
Frames and Video Editing
For a video editor, understanding frames is crucial because they are the smallest unit of time you can work with. When you edit video, you are placing cuts, transitions, and effects precisely between frames.
- Frame Rate (FPS): Videos play at a specific frame rate, measured in frames per second (FPS). Common frame rates include:
- 24 fps: Standard for cinema, offering a film-like look.
- 30 fps (or 29.97 fps): Common for television and many online videos.
- 60 fps: Used for smoother motion, often in sports or video games.
- Editing Precision: Editing timelines display video broken down into individual frames, allowing editors to make precise edits down to 1/24th, 1/30th, or even 1/60th of a second or faster, depending on the source footage.
- Playback: The speed at which frames are displayed determines the playback speed of the video. Faster frame rates or slowing down playback in editing (like for slow motion) directly manipulates how frames are shown.
In essence, every second of video contains a specific number of these individual frame images, providing the granular control needed for professional video editing.
