The Magic Behind FPS

The technology behind the way we view things on screen is ever evolving, becoming more and more in tune with reality and creating amazing experiences for viewers. Here at Cine2DVD we are always following these advances, eager to see where the future of video will take us and how we can apply it to your home videos. FPS is one such element of video advancement we are excited about.

But what is FPS and what are the advantages that it can bring to the home viewing experience?

 

What is FPS?

FPS (frames per second) is, simply, the frequency at which an imaging device displays consecutive frames. The term is used in relation to film or video cameras, computer graphics and motion capture systems alike.

Human vision takes the FPS in, but the untrained eye often will not notice the difference between 24 and 60 FPS in most cases. The resolution and temporal sensitivity of the human eye differs from person to person. Theoretically, human vision can process 1000 separate images at once, but at this stage it will appear to be nothing more than a blur. So, an optimum FPS must be reached to be perceptible to the human eye and maintain a high-quality viewing experience.

Speed

There are different speeds of FPS that we see on a daily basis, depending on the way that the video is filmed. A standard cine reel is around 18 FPS for example.

More common is 24FPS, which is the standard format for most televised programmes on television and in film. This has recently increased to 25 FPS on the standard PAL television, as this is much better for suited for progressive-scan output; such as LCD televisions, computer monitors and projectors.

Cinematic filming has taken to using a 30 FPS filming technique, due to the higher quality and cinematic nature of this frame rate. Recently, Peter Jackson used 48 FPS in the film The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey which received a mixed reception. The criticism from the audience was that it felt too lifelike, effectively ruining the suspension of disbelief needed to view the film. So, it seems as if a higher frame rate and more realistic experience is not always the desired outcome for audiences.

However, that is not the case in gaming. For many gamers, the more real the better, and as such 60 FPS is the desired output. This frame rate works well with the growing standard of 1080p50 resolution screens and the European Broadcasting Union considers this to be the best way to future-proof broadcast television. It recommends that companies upgrade their equipment to 50 or 60 FPS as a result.

Ultimately FPS is something which many people may never even notice; however, it is an important part of our viewing experience nevertheless.

So, if you want your cine memories to be brought up to speed then we are happy to help you. Viewing your old memories on DVD can be a great blast from the past, brought to your TV screen today.

To find out more about how we can help convert your cine film, please contact us on 0800 592433 and we will be happy to help.

Why Summer has the Best Memories (And Why You Never Want to Forget Them)

Summer has always been the best time of year to make memories. When you were at school you had the longer summer holidays to have fun with your friends, now you can enjoy picnics with your own family. No matter what you do during summer, whether you go to the beach or organise a big party for everyone you know, the truth is that it always feels bittersweet when it’s over.

Looking back, summer always features in people’s fondest memories, so it’s only natural that you’d want to preserve these memories the best you can.

 

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The Zapruder Film

The invention of film not only revolutionised the face of mass entertainment, but changed the way we record history. We no longer had to rely on the accounts of witnesses to understand historic events; we could see them happen for ourselves. More importantly, as the home movie gained popularity and became more affordable, it became more likely that we could record history for ourselves.

One of the most prominent examples of this is, of course, the infamous Zapruder film; 26.6 seconds of silent footage which captured the assassination of American president John F. Kennedy in full colour. Because of its graphic nature, we do not include the footage here, however it is easily found online should you wish to view it.

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Genre Spotlight: The Wild Wild West

The different genres of film mean that there is something out there for everyone. From film noir to romance, whatever your tastes there is a film or even a whole genre that encapsulates it perfectly.

One genre that took over the expanse of the movie world throughout the 1950s is undoubtedly the western. Actors such as John Wayne and Clint Eastwood have become part of the cultural consciousness, the epitome of the rugged cowboy on an adventure to fight a corrupt lawman in an array of epic gun fights. These movies were at their peak a grand production that involved many key film elements to become a staple genre of the movie world.

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