How does frame rate affect the quality of my broadcast?

Part 3. – Frame rate

The frame rate of your video broadcast determines how many ‘frames’, or new images, are shown per second. A video stream with a high bitrate and a low frame rate will have a very clear image, but you may see an increase in the choppiness of the broadcast. A video with a high frame rate and a low bitrate will have a ‘fuzzy’ image but show movement smoothly.

Standard frame rates:

15fps - Internet broadcast

24fps - Film

29.97fps - Internet broadcast

30fps - TV / DVD

59.94fps - DVD

Using Windows Media Encoder you can select any framerate you wish. However it is important to know when to change the default settings. This is generally determined by the type of content you are going to broadcast.

Scenarios:

Fast action video

            -Sporting events, Racing, etc.

When broadcasting a video stream that has a lot of movement, especially fast movement, it is important to have a higher frame rate. This will keep your broadcast looking smooth, and avoid having blurs or ‘trailing’ effects. Deciding whether or not to go with a higher or lower bitrate (which affects the clearness and detail), however, depends on what you are broadcasting.

Low movement video

            -Church services, Instructional videos, etc.

When broadcasting a video stream that has limited or slower movement you can lower the frame rate without sacrificing the quality of the broadcast. A 10fps or 15fps frame rate will still allow you to broadcast a clear stream. Again, deciding whether or not to go with a higher or lower bitrate depends on what you are broadcasting.