The Magic of 24FPS: Why Animators Still Love This Frame Rate

 In the age of high-definition, lightning-fast refresh rates, you might wonder why animation seems content with a seemingly low frame rate of 24 frames per second (FPS).  There are actually a few reasons why 24 FPS remains a strong preference in the world of animation.


A Historical Legacy

The film industry established 24 FPS as the standard back in the 1920s. It was a sweet spot, balancing technological limitations with perceived smoothness of motion.  This standard carried over into television and, consequently, animation.  There's a certain "cinematic feel" associated with 24 FPS that many animators want to capture.


The Art of Illusion

Animation is all about creating the illusion of movement through a series of still images.  Our brains are surprisingly good at filling in the gaps between frames, especially at 24 FPS.  Higher frame rates can sometimes look overly smooth or even hyper-realistic, which isn't always the desired aesthetic in animation.


Balancing Quality and Efficiency

While higher frame rates offer smoother motion, they come at a cost. Each additional frame requires more work from animators and puts a greater strain on rendering systems.  24 FPS allows animators to create high-quality work without sacrificing efficiency.  They can often achieve the desired level of motion by strategically using techniques like "tweening" (filling in frames between key poses) or animating "on twos" (holding a drawing for two frames).


The Power of Storytelling

Ultimately, animation is about telling a story. Frame rate is just one tool in the animator's toolbox.  24 FPS allows animators to focus on the bigger picture – character development, plot, and emotional impact – without getting bogged down in excessive technical details.


It's Not Set in Stone

While 24 FPS remains the standard, animation is an ever-evolving art form.  Some studios and creators are experimenting with higher frame rates for specific effects or stylistic choices.  The future of animation frame rates may involve a more nuanced approach, tailoring the rate to the specific needs of the project.  But for now, 24 FPS continues to be a powerful tool for creating captivating and effective animation.

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