How do you make an time-lapse video

Mar 16, 2024

Rising sun, tumultuous sky, a slow reflection of the city. It's no wonder why time-lapses are one of the most captivating genres of film. They're breathtaking and immersive -taking us out of our normal frame of reference and giving us the chance to experience the world around us in one stunning broad sweep.

The fundamentals of a good time-lapse seem to be quite simple. And because they're so watchable, you can use them to record almost everything. These are great for filming videos, set-ups for events, workout sets, and lots more.

In this tutorial we'll teach how you can create the perfect time-lapse by using three different techniques. Learn how to create the time-lapse using just the help of a DSLR camera, an iPhone or iPad, as well as a video image. There will also be a couple of examples for inspiration.

How to capture a time-lapse

Two main methods are available for creating a time-lapse movie It is possible to increase the speed of video by editing it or putting together still photographs. Remember that each technique needs specific preparation, executing as well as brain strength. Consider the advantages and disadvantages of every method, and take into consideration the amount of footage and editing time required as well as the data needs and equipment needed to achieve your time-lapse goals.

Let's break down the steps of each method!

What is a Time-Lapse video?

A time-lapse video is an extended period of time recorded in video, and then replayed at a more rapid rate.

How can you record an time-lapse on an DSLR Camera

If you're searching for an authentic, professional time-lapse, we recommend using stills taken with an DSLR camera. Stills photos permit for long exposures and can create beautiful motion blur.

Another benefit to photos over the raw format is they get a much higher resolution. Higher resolution equals more freedom when editing to zoom out and in depending on your needs.

Remember that making large scale time-lapses with your DSLR means capturing thousands of photos and editing your footage. Whatever the final product, we recommend investing in solid data storage to save all your effort.

To create the traditional time-lapse with your DSLR, follow these five steps:

  1. Begin with a steady base or a surface. The tripod or surface will guarantee that your footage stays steady and will capture high-quality video with out any disruptive shakiness.
  2. Use still photo mode on your DSLR Make sure to verify that you're using manual exposureThis is important as you don't want to risk changing from frame to frame.
  3. Use slower shutter speed - It will create a the illusion of blurred-motion. Faster speed will cause your video to appear choppy. (You might require an ND filter to achieve this!)
  4. Use a timer - Your camera may have an internal time-lapse mode or an interval mode. If so make use of it! It will make your life much easier.
  5. Upload and stitch them together After you've gathered all your individual stills, import them into your editing software and stitch them all.

How many photo stills will I require to create an time-lapse?

Generally, a video frame rate is made by thirty frames every second. A photo will make up 1/30th of your frame rate. Choose the duration you wish to have for your film in second and then multiply that by 30 to arrive at the amount you need!

How can you record time-lapse videos using an iPhone

If you prefer shooting time-lapse videos on iPhone or android -- don't worry! Mobile phones are ideal for mobility, minimizing the equipment needed to shoot as well as reducing costs to make films.

This is a great option for small enterprises, influencers, or brands focused on popular social networks like Instagram. These short and punchy videos are a hit with mobile phones and transform your strategy for video into a completely new direction. Find out how you can create a time-lapse footage on your iPhone:

  1. If you're an iPhone user (iOS 8 or greater) use the camera app and move to the time-lapse mode.
  2. The subject matter you choose to shoot decide the appropriate type of shot (ex. An individual versus the outdoors).
  3. If you plan to take shots of the landscape it is recommended to use a tripod to stabilize your phone.
  4. When you're finished recording the video will automatically compress and show up on the camera roll.

There are a variety of ways to create time-lapse video using your smartphone, however!

iPhone as well as Android mobile apps to create an time-lapse

If you'd rather let apps perform their work, we've got a few faves on the iPhone:

  1. Hyperlapse from Instagram
  2. Lapse It
  3. Lapse It Pro

Also, for Android users, check out these useful tools to create the perfect time-lapse within a matter of minutes:

  1. Do Not Stop It
  2. Framelapse
  3. Microsoft Hyperlapse Mobile

Read our tutorial on making videos with your smartphone.

We'll make it easy for you!

How can you make a time-lapse video using a video

You can also make a time-lapse by using video files. The process of shooting a video and increasing its speed requires less pre-planning on your part rather than a selection of stills.

It's worth noting that this technique works well during the day, but it's less effective in night time shots. You'll also likely get an stuttering effect, and less of a 'motion blur' that's common in a collection of stills using this method.

  1. Find a stable surface - Do you see a pattern in this picture? Be patient!
  2. Choose video mode on your DSLR Make sure that you're in manual mode, which means you can have greater control over the exposure!
  3. Reduce the shutter speed to a slower rate shoot at 1/30 or 1/60 to minimize choppiness when editing the post.
  4. Take a video and record it - don't think twice about going for a long time: the longer you shoot the more dramatic effect you'll see in the post. We suggest at least one hour for peak drama.
  5. Edit your images - After you've uploaded your pictures loaded into your editing software. Then, you can arrange them in a sequence and you have the illusion of a time-lapse! If you're just recording your subject, increase the speed of your footage to get the same result.

What's the best way to make a night-to-day time-lapses?

It is recommended to use aperture priority mode (noted as 'Av' or "A") in the event that your lighting conditions will fluctuate dramatically. This allows you to set the aperture of the lens and then your camera will alter the shutter speed in order to maintain the correct lighting.

Time-lapse videos we love

If you've gained an idea of the many ways to capture an epic time-lapse video, let's take an review of the artists who have been mastering their craft on and beyond.

"Night Licht" composed by Arthur Cauty

Arthur Cauty captured textures of movement and light in this stunning video. Pore over his profile to discover how to make the illusion of motion.

"SOUTH AMERICA" by Morten Rustad

Morten Rustad made stunning videos following a year of travel in South America. See how he utilized technology controlled by motion to show unexpected details.

"PATAGONIA 8K" by Martin Heck

Time-warp Martin Heck shot 6 weeks of video footage for the stunning panorama in southern Chile and Argentina. The footage you can see is an incredible culmination of over 100,000 images.

Finalize master the art of creating time-lapse videos

Time-lapse video clips are an enjoyable technique to take stunning photos or create compelling content on social media. If you're looking for a stunning scene, looking at the night sky, or capturing an evaporating horizon from the rear of your bike Get to work and then share it right here to share it with the world !