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HoldVideoFrames

What is it?

The HoldVideoFrames node creates a stepped video effect by holding each frame for a specified number of frames. This creates a stop-motion or frame-stepping effect that can add artistic interest to your video content.

When would I use it?

Use the HoldVideoFrames node when:

  • You want to create a stop-motion animation effect
  • You need to slow down fast-moving content for better visibility
  • You're creating artistic video effects with frame manipulation
  • You want to add a retro or vintage feel to your video
  • You need to create dramatic slow-motion effects
  • You're making content that requires frame-by-frame analysis

How to use it

Basic Setup

  1. Add a HoldVideoFrames node to your workflow
  2. Connect a video source to the "video" input
  3. Set the "hold_frames" parameter to specify how many frames to hold
  4. Run the workflow to create the frame-holding effect

Parameters

  • video: The video content to apply frame holding to (supports VideoArtifact and VideoUrlArtifact)

  • hold_frames: Number of frames to hold (1-10, default: 2)

    • 1 = no effect (normal playback)
    • 2 = each frame held for 2 frames (slower playback)
    • 5 = each frame held for 5 frames (much slower playback)
    • 10 = each frame held for 10 frames (very slow playback)

  • processing_speed: Balance between processing speed and output quality (default: "balanced")

    • fast: Fastest processing, lower quality (ultrafast preset, CRF 30)
    • balanced: Good balance of speed and quality (medium preset, CRF 23)
    • quality: Highest quality, slower processing (slow preset, CRF 18)

Outputs

  • video: The video with frame holding effect applied, available as output to connect to other nodes

Example

Imagine you want to create a stop-motion effect on a video:

  1. Add a HoldVideoFrames node to your workflow
  2. Connect the video output from a LoadVideo node to the HoldVideoFrames's "video" input
  3. Set "hold_frames" to 3 to hold each frame for 3 frames
  4. Run the workflow - the video will have a stepped, stop-motion effect
  5. The output filename will be {original_filename}_hold_3_frames.{format}

Important Notes

  • The HoldVideoFrames node uses FFmpeg with high-quality frame processing
  • The effect reduces the effective frame rate by the hold_frames value
  • The original audio track is preserved but may not sync perfectly with the visual effect
  • Processing time depends on video length and hold_frames value
  • Logs are available for debugging processing issues

Effect Recommendations

  • Subtle slow motion: Use hold_frames 2-3 for gentle frame holding
  • Stop-motion effect: Use hold_frames 4-6 for noticeable stepping
  • Dramatic slow motion: Use hold_frames 7-10 for very slow playback
  • Frame analysis: Use hold_frames 2-3 to slow down fast content for review

Common Issues

  • Processing Timeout: Large videos may take longer to process; the node has a 5-minute timeout
  • Effect Too Strong: Reduce hold_frames value if the effect is too dramatic
  • Audio Sync Issues: The frame holding may affect audio synchronization
  • No Video Input: Make sure a video source is connected to the "video" input
  • FFmpeg Errors: Check the logs parameter for detailed error information if processing fails