Slow motion videos make instant movie magic. If you've ever watched a Hollywood action movie, you'd be familiar with the cinematic impact harnessed by a slow mo scene. But did you know that you can create slow motion videos that hold the same power as a big-time director? With the right camera and a bit of knowledge, it's completely possible.
So, let's discuss how to make a slow motion video, and what some of the best slow motion camera options are in 2026 — for all skill levels, from aspiring filmmakers to professionals.
Last updated: June 2026
What exactly is slow motion?
Put simply, slow motion video is footage that is played back at a slower speed than it was recorded at. As a result, viewers are able to take in more detail and experience more suspense as they witness the action unfold at a speed slower than real-time. Slow mo videos are generally quite dramatic, and therefore a great tool for filmmakers, sports videographers, and content creators alike.
How to shoot slow motion videos
When you're adjusting your camera to shoot video, you're presented with some key settings. The main setting we think of when discussing high-quality footage is resolution, but one setting that's equally important for slow motion is frame rate.
Video footage is actually made up of a series of still images recorded and played back at speed — so fast, you'd never know. These still images are called ‘frames’, so the ‘frame rate’ is the number of frames the camera captures in one second of video. Standard video is usually recorded at 24 or 30 frames per second (fps), which looks natural when played back in real-time. But if you slow down 30fps footage, the result is choppy and unnatural.
The key to smooth slow motion is recording at a higher frame rate than your playback speed. The minimum for usable slow motion is 60fps, with 120fps, 240fps, and even higher being popular choices for dramatic slow mo effects. The higher the frame rate, the slower and smoother the slow motion effect — though higher frame rates may require a trade-off in resolution.
Our tips for making better slow motion videos
- Find the right slow motion camera. Some cameras produce slow motion video in-camera automatically; others simply offer a higher frame rate that you slow down in editing. Research this before purchasing — if your camera doesn't have in-camera slow-mo, you'll need video editing software like DaVinci Resolve or Adobe Premiere Pro to create the effect in post.
- Adjust your shutter speed manually. If your camera offers manual controls, set your shutter speed to double your frame rate. If you're new to manual exposure controls, our beginner's guide to shutter speed covers everything you need to know. For example, if shooting at 120fps, use a shutter speed of 1/240s. This follows the ‘180-degree shutter rule’ and produces the most natural-looking motion blur in slow motion footage.
- Shoot in good light. Higher frame rates require more light, as each frame has less time to expose. Shoot outdoors in daylight or use additional lighting when shooting slow motion indoors.
- Use a stable platform. Slow motion amplifies every movement — including camera shake. For a broader look at working with motion in-camera, our guide to capturing movement in photography is worth a read. Use a tripod, gimbal, or camera with strong IBIS for the smoothest results. Not sure which tripod to choose? Our guide to the best tripods for photos and video covers top picks across every budget.
The best cameras for slow motion video in 2026
The best slow motion cameras can record at high frame rates while maintaining a strong resolution. Here are our top picks across different categories:
GoPro Hero 13 Black
The GoPro Hero 13 Black is an exciting entry point to the slow motion world. It can record 5.3K at 60fps and 2.7K at 240fps, making it one of the most capable action cameras for slow mo. Its rugged, waterproof design makes it ideal for sports, adventure, and outdoor shooting — and its compact size means you can take it anywhere.
DJI Osmo Action 4
The DJI Osmo Action 4 is a strong GoPro alternative with a large 1/1.3-inch sensor that delivers exceptional image quality for an action camera. It records 4K at 120fps for smooth slow motion, and its RockSteady 3.0 stabilisation keeps footage steady even in demanding conditions. The dual-screen design and long battery life make it a practical choice for content creators.
Sony ZV-E1
The Sony ZV-E1 is a full-frame mirrorless camera designed specifically for video creators. It records 4K at up to 120fps with Sony's excellent subject-tracking autofocus, making it one of the most capable slow motion cameras at its price point. Its compact body and vlogger-friendly features — including a fully articulating screen and built-in ND filter — make it a versatile choice for solo creators.
Canon EOS R5
The Canon EOS R5 is a professional-grade full-frame mirrorless camera that records 4K at up to 120fps internally — making it one of the most capable slow motion cameras available. With Canon's Dual Pixel CMOS AF II autofocus, outstanding dynamic range, and 8K RAW video capability, the R5 is the choice for filmmakers and commercial videographers who demand the very best.
Sony A7S III
The Sony A7S III remains one of the finest video cameras ever made. Its 12.1MP full-frame sensor is optimised for video If you're weighing up sensor size as part of your decision, our guide to understanding camera sensor sizes explains the real-world differences between full-frame, APS-C, and Micro Four Thirds., delivering extraordinary low-light performance and 4K at 120fps with 10-bit internal recording. For videographers who shoot in challenging lighting conditions — concerts, events, night scenes — the A7S III is in a class of its own.
Ready to start making slow motion videos? Browse our full range of video cameras and action cameras at Ted's Cameras, or visit your nearest store for expert advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What frame rate do I need for slow motion video?
The minimum frame rate for usable slow motion is 60fps, which gives you 2x slow motion when played back at 30fps. For more dramatic slow motion, 120fps gives you 4x slow motion, and 240fps gives you 8x. Higher frame rates produce smoother, more dramatic slow motion effects but may require a trade-off in resolution or image quality.
Can I shoot slow motion on a smartphone?
Yes — most modern smartphones can shoot slow motion at 120fps or 240fps in 1080p. However, dedicated cameras offer significantly better image quality, more frame rate options, and greater control over exposure settings, making them the preferred choice for serious slow motion work.
Do I need special software to create slow motion videos?
If your camera has an in-camera slow motion mode, it will output the footage already slowed down. If you're recording at a high frame rate and want to slow it down yourself, you'll need video editing software such as DaVinci Resolve (free), Adobe Premiere Pro, or Final Cut Pro. These tools let you set the playback speed of your footage to create the slow motion effect.
Why does my slow motion footage look choppy?
Choppy slow motion is usually caused by recording at too low a frame rate. Make sure you're recording at at least 60fps — ideally 120fps or higher — for smooth results. Also check that your shutter speed is set to double your frame rate (the 180-degree shutter rule) to ensure natural-looking motion blur.
What is the best slow motion camera for beginners?
The GoPro Hero 13 Black is an excellent starting point — it's affordable, rugged, easy to use, and capable of 2.7K 240fps slow motion. For those wanting a more versatile camera that also shoots great stills, the Sony ZV-E1 or DJI Osmo Action 4 are both strong beginner-to-intermediate options.
What Is a Slow Mo Camera?
A slow mo camera is any camera capable of recording footage at a higher frame rate than standard playback speed — typically 60fps or above. When that footage is played back at the normal 24–30fps, motion appears beautifully slowed down. The best slow mo cameras offer high frame rates like 120fps, 240fps, or even 960fps, giving you fine control over just how dramatic your slow motion effect looks. Whether you're shooting sport, wildlife, or creative content, a dedicated slow mo camera lets you capture fleeting moments that the naked eye simply can't process in real time.
Best Slow Motion Video Cameras in 2026
Choosing the right slow motion video camera depends on where and how you shoot. Mirrorless cameras like the Sony ZV-E1 and Sony A7S III deliver stunning 4K slow motion with professional-grade image quality, making them ideal for filmmakers and content creators. Action cameras such as the GoPro Hero 13 Black punch well above their size, offering 240fps in compact, rugged bodies perfect for sport and adventure. For cinema-level slow motion video, dedicated video cameras from Sony and Blackmagic Design offer the highest frame rates and dynamic range available. Whatever your use case, there's a slow motion video camera suited to your workflow and budget.
Affordable Slow Motion Cameras: Great Results on a Budget
You don't need to spend a fortune to shoot impressive slow motion footage. There are several affordable slow motion cameras that deliver excellent results for beginners and enthusiasts alike. The GoPro Hero 13 Black is one of the most accessible options, offering up to 240fps at 1080p at a mid-range price point. Entry-level mirrorless cameras like the Sony ZV-E10 II also provide solid slow motion performance at 120fps in 1080p. If you're after an affordable slow motion camera for social media content or everyday creative projects, these options deliver real cinematic impact without the professional price tag.