Chapter 6 Live View and D-Movies

165

WHAT FRAME RATE: 24 fps or 30 fps?

Even intermediate movie shooters can be confused by the choice between 24 fps and

30 fps, especially since those are only nominal figures (with the D7000, the 24 fps setting actually yields 23.976 frames per second; 30 fps gives you 29.97 actual “frames” per second).

The difference lies in the two “worlds” of motion images, film and video. The standard frame rate for motion picture film is 24 fps, while the video rate, at least in the United States, Japan, and other places using the NTSC standard is 30 fps (actually 60 interlaced fields per second). Computer editing software can handle either type, and convert between them. The choice between 24 fps and 30 fps is determined by what you plan to do with your video.

The short explanation is that, for technical reasons I won’t go into here, shooting at 24 fps gives your movie a “film” look, excellent for showing fine detail. However, if your clip has moving subjects, or you pan the camera, 24 fps can produce a jerky effect called “jud- der.” A 30 fps rate produces a home-video look that some feel is less desirable, but which is smoother and less jittery when displayed on an electronic monitor. I suggest you try both and use the frame rate that best suits your tastes and video editing software.

In the Movie Settings entry of the Shooting menu, you can make the following choices:

Movie Quality. Choose your resolution. Use the Movie Settings entry in the Shooting menu. Or, when Live View is activated, and before you start shooting your video clip, you can select the resolution/frame rate of your movie. Your choices are as follows:

1920 ⋅ 1080 at 24 fps, high quality, low compression.

1920 ⋅ 1080 at 24 fps, normal quality, medium compression.

1280 ⋅ 720 at 30 fps, high quality, low compression.

1280 ⋅ 720 at 30 fps, normal quality, medium compression.

1280 ⋅ 720 at 24 fps, high quality, low compression.

1280 ⋅ 720 at 24fps, normal quality, medium compression.

640 ⋅ 424 at 30 fps, high quality, low compression. (Useful for video clips dis- played on web pages)

640 ⋅ 424 at 30 fps, normal quality, medium compression. (Useful for video clips displayed on web pages)

Page 190
Image 190
Nikon D7000 manual What Frame Rate 24 fps or 30 fps?

D7000 specifications

The Nikon D7000 is a mid-range digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera that has garnered a reputation for its impressive blend of features and user-friendly design. Released in 2010, the D7000 marked a significant step forward for Nikon, appealing to both amateur photographers and enthusiasts seeking a robust and versatile camera.

At the heart of the D7000 is a 16.2-megapixel APS-C (DX) CMOS sensor that delivers sharp, high-resolution images with rich colors and stunning detail. Coupled with Nikon's EXPEED 2 image processing engine, the camera excels in low-light performance, allowing photographers to shoot at sensitivities ranging from ISO 100 to ISO 6400, expandable to ISO 25600. This flexibility empowers users to capture clean images even in challenging lighting situations.

The autofocus system of the D7000 is another highlight, featuring a 39-point AF system with nine cross-type sensors. This advanced system ensures fast and accurate focus, making it suitable for a variety of shooting scenarios, from portraits to fast-action sports photography. The camera also includes full HD video recording capabilities at 1080p, with options for frame rates of 24, 25, and 30 frames per second, providing videographers with quality and flexibility.

The D7000's build quality is robust, with a magnesium alloy body designed to withstand the rigors of regular use. It is weather-sealed to protect against dust and moisture, making it a reliable choice for outdoor shooting. The camera features a 3-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 921,000 dots, allowing for high-clarity image review and menu navigation. The 100% viewfinder coverage gives a true-to-life perspective when composing shots.

Additional features include in-camera HDR, multiple exposure capabilities, and a comprehensive set of scene modes that assist users in achieving the best results in various conditions. The D7000 is also equipped with dual memory card slots, supporting both SD and SDHC formats for ample storage and backup options.

With its combination of high-quality imaging, advanced autofocus, robust build, and versatile features, the Nikon D7000 stands out as a powerful tool for photographers looking to elevate their craft.