How to Slow Down a Video in Premiere Pro (2 Easy Ways)

Trying to get that smooth slow-motion effect in Premiere Pro but not sure where to start? Whether you're editing action shots, cinematic b-roll, or just want to stretch out a moment, slowing down your footage can add a lot of impact.

The good news? Premiere Pro gives you a couple of simple ways to do it. You don’t need any fancy plugins or advanced skills. Just a few clicks and you’re there.

Here’s how I usually do it.

1. Use the Speed/Duration Tool

This is the quickest way if you're just looking to slow down a clip without too much fuss.

Here’s how:

1. Right-click the clip in your timeline.
2. Choose Speed/Duration from the menu.
3. In the pop-up window, lower the speed percentage (for example, 50% will make it half as fast).
4. Make sure Ripple Edit is checked if you want the timeline to adjust automatically.
5. Click OK.

That’s it. Your clip will now play slower based on the percentage you set.

Tip: If your footage was shot at a high frame rate (like 60fps or 120fps), slowing it down will look much smoother than if it was shot at 24fps or 30fps.

2. Use Time Remapping for More Control

If you want more flexibility (like gradually slowing down part of a clip), Time Remapping is your friend.

Here’s how:

1. Right-click your clip and choose Show Clip Keyframes > Time Remapping > Speed.
2. Use the Pen Tool (P) to add keyframes where you want the speed change to start and end.
3. Drag the rubber band line down between those keyframes to reduce speed.
4. You can also drag the keyframe handles apart for smoother transitions.

This method takes a little more time but gives you way more control over how and where the slowdown happens.

Quick Note on Frame Rates

If your footage looks choppy when slowed down, it might be because it was recorded at a low frame rate like 24fps or 30fps. For buttery-smooth slow motion, try shooting at higher frame rates like 60fps or above whenever possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ctrl+K in Premiere Pro?

Ctrl+K (Windows) or Command+K (Mac) is used to make a cut at the playhead position on selected clips in your timeline. It’s one of the fastest ways to split clips without switching tools.

Why can't I change the speed in Premiere Pro?

If you can't change speed, check if the clip is nested or part of a multi-camera sequence. Also, make sure it's not locked or currently being used by another effect that restricts speed changes.

How do I slow down a video clip?

You can slow down any video clip by right-clicking it in the timeline and selecting Speed/Duration, then lowering the speed percentage. For more advanced control, use Time Remapping with keyframes on your timeline.

Slowing things down doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you're doing quick edits or crafting something more cinematic, these tools are built right into Premiere Pro and ready when you are.