Selective reduction of video data using variable sampling rates based on importance within the image

In a reduction process, data in portion buffers are selectively sampled at different sampling rates proportional to their assigned weights. For instance, portions assigned highest weights could be sampled at a reference rate corresponding to the repetition frequency of the originally received frames, portions assigned lowest weights could be sampled at {fraction (1/10)}th the reference rate, and portions assigned weights intermediate the lowest and highest ones could be sampled at rates less than the reference rate but more than {fraction (1/10)}th the reference rate. Accordingly, sampled portions assigned less than highest weights, but containing data representing objects in motion, could be subject to reproduction with less clarity than sampled portions assigned highest weight. In one application, video data depicting a public figure addressing an audience is processed to assign highest weights to the speaker's facial features, arms and other relevant body parts, and lesser weights to other picture elements including members of the audience. In another example, video data captured by a surveillance camera is processed to assign highest weights to picture elements capable of representing unauthorized intrusion into a scanned area, and lesser weights to data representing objects that are either static or in the equivalent of a static condition. In another example, video data representing a commercial to be televised is processed to assign highest weights to an advertised object or product worn or carried by a person in motion (e.g. sneakers worn by a moving athlete) and lesser weights to picture parts not directly relevant to the advertised object.