videobeaux/docs/programs/effects/stutter_pro.md

stutter_pro

Description

Applies a customizable frame-stutter effect where playback cadence is intentionally disrupted according to a user-defined stutter intensity.
stutter_pro offers far more control than the simpler nostalgic_stutter or overexposed_stutter modules, allowing the editor to tune how aggressively the timeline “hiccups.”

Purpose

stutter_pro is designed for creators who want:

• precise and adjustable frame stuttering,
• rhythmic or tempo-based visual cadence disruption,
• glitch-style jitter that can be subtle or extreme,
• stylized motion breakdowns for music videos or experimental edits,
• deterministic stutter behavior tied to a single argument.

How It Works

1. Frame Retention / Skipping
   Based on the stutter value, certain frames are duplicated or dropped.

2. Pattern Generation
   The effect may repeat, hold, or jitter frames depending on stutter intensity.

3. Temporal Distortion
   Motion becomes erratic, producing:

   • choppy sequences,
   • step-motion effects,
   • rhythmic pulse-style stutters.

4. Encoding
   Output is encoded using Videobeaux global codec, pixel format, and CRF settings.

Program Template

videobeaux -P stutter_pro \
  -i input.mp4 \
  -o output.mp4 \
  --stutter VALUE

Arguments

• stutter — Controls the intensity of the effect.
  Higher values produce more extreme frame skipping / duplication.

Real World Example

videobeaux -P stutter_pro \
  -i myvideo.mp4 \
  -o stutter_pro_styled.mp4 \
  --stutter EXAMPLE

Program Output

Technical Notes

• High stutter values can dramatically change perceived rhythm and pacing.
• Ideal for matching beat-synchronized edits by dialing stutter to musical subdivisions.
• Heavy stuttering may result in harsh judder depending on the source frame rate.
• Works well when paired with effects that react to cadence disruption, like lsd_feedback.

Recommended Usage

• Music videos requiring beat-sync visual pulses.
• Experimental collage sequences with mechanical or robotic movement.
• Hyper-stylized glitch breakdowns.
• Rapid-cut montage moments needing added temporal chaos.
• Loop creation when combined with reverse or looper_pro.

Quality Tips

• Lower CRF retains crisp edges through stutter jumps.
• Slight blur (blur_pix) can soften the harshness for dreamy styles.
• Combine with overexposed_stutter for chaotic shockwave motion.
• Use speed together with stutter to build complex rhythmic motion systems.
• Preprocess with frame_interpolate if you want smoother slow-motion stutter artifacts.