Understanding the 180 Degree Shutter Rule for Filming Video
Chris Sidoruk Media filming a music video in the Utah Salt Flats. Photo- ©2021 Lisa Ryan
The 180 degree shutter rule is a basic concept that every camera operator should know when filming video. This rule governs the relationship between the shutter speed and the frame rate of a camera, and can have a significant impact on the overall look and feel of a video. In this article, we will explain what the 180 degree shutter rule is, why it is important, and how camera operators can use it to achieve the desired effect in their video productions.
What is the 180 Degree Shutter Rule?
The 180 degree shutter rule is a simple guideline for setting the shutter speed of a camera when filming video. It states that the shutter speed should be set to twice the value of the frame rate in order to create the correct amount of motion blur in the video footage.
For example, if the frame rate is set to 24 frames per second (fps), the shutter speed should be set to 1/48th of a second (or the closest available setting). Similarly, if the frame rate is set to 30fps, the shutter speed should be set to 1/60th of a second.
Chris Sidoruk Media filming a music video in the Utah Salt Flats. Photo- ©2021 Lisa Ryan
Why is the 180 Degree Shutter Rule Important?
The 180 degree shutter rule is important because it helps to create a natural and pleasing motion blur in the video footage. When shooting video, there is a trade-off between motion blur and sharpness. Too much motion blur can make the footage look blurry and indistinct, while too little can make it look jarring and artificial.
By following the 180 degree shutter rule, camera operators can achieve the right balance between these two factors. The resulting footage will have a natural and cinematic look that is pleasing to the eye.
How to Apply the 180 Degree Shutter Rule
To apply the 180 degree shutter rule, follow these steps:
Step 1: Determine the Frame Rate
First, determine the frame rate at which you will be shooting the video. This is typically set in the camera's menu settings and can be adjusted to suit your needs.
Step 2: Calculate the Shutter Speed
Next, calculate the appropriate shutter speed based on the frame rate using the 180 degree shutter rule. This involves multiplying the frame rate by 2 and then setting the shutter speed to the closest available value.
For example, if the frame rate is set to 24fps, the shutter speed should be set to 1/48th of a second. If the frame rate is set to 30fps, the shutter speed should be set to 1/60th of a second.
Step 3: Adjust the Aperture and ISO
Once the shutter speed is set, adjust the aperture and ISO settings to achieve the desired exposure level. This may require some experimentation and adjustment to get the right balance of sharpness and motion blur. Note - For daytime outdoor shoots, you will most likely need an ND filter to maintain the proper shutter speed and still have a correct exposure.
Step 4: Fine-tune as Needed
Finally, fine-tune the settings as needed to achieve the desired look and feel for your video production. This may involve making small adjustments to the shutter speed, aperture, and ISO settings until you get the desired result.
Benefits of Using the 180 Degree Shutter Rule
Natural Motion Blur:
By following the 180 degree shutter rule, you can achieve a natural and pleasing motion blur in your video footage.
Cinematic Look:
The resulting footage will have a cinematic look that is pleasing to the eye and enhances the overall quality of the video production.
Consistency:
Using the 180 degree shutter rule ensures consistency across different shots and scenes, which is important for creating a coherent and professional-looking video production.
Conclusion
The 180 degree shutter rule is a basic concept that every camera operator should know when filming video. By following this rule, you can achieve a natural and pleasing motion blur in your footage that enhances the overall quality.
