How To Shoot Time-Lapse Video

Time-lapse videos are well-known. It produces beautiful effects. It allows events to occur at a much faster pace than what our eyes typically see. This type of video is commonly utilized in documentaries on wildlife commercials, movies, and other films with high-end camera systems and software for editing. Today, many affordable video cameras come with time-lapsing features built-in, and you can make your own fascinating videos.

I’ve been trying to make time-lapse videos for a few years and decided to share some of my tips and tricks here with you.

Overview

Before you begin recording your time-lapse footage, you must select your subject. A few good subjects to choose from including everyday traffic, sunrise, or waves at the beach. It is possible to shoot anything that you think would look appealing if you record movements across time. I am a fan of cityscapes and also have the sky time-lapsed. Seeing the sky and clouds change in color with time is genuinely fascinating.

If you’re planning to shoot time-lapse videos, you’ll be deciding on the method you’ll use. There are two primary methods to consider:

Make recordings at standard rates. You can capture the video at an average rate and then speed it up with the help of the video editor software. I refer to this as the “post-production” method. If you are looking for flexibility, I recommend you try this approach. You can adjust the speed at which you edit the video and get a better quality video. I suggest that you invest in appropriate software such as Corel VideoStudio or Adobe Premiere Elements to aid you in creating effects like time-lapse that you can add to your after-production. They’re expensive, sure, but they’ll cost you quite a bit, but they’ll definitely be worthwhile over the long run.

Time-lapse recording. Another way to make these videos is by using your camera. There are many cameras that come with built-in features that support this. It’s easy to use because you simply have to set up your camera and click shoot. The camera immediately records the footage you desire and is able to use less memory space on your camera.
Whatever method you decide to use for your production, it is essential to understand that there are specific steps to take to ensure an excellent quality product.

Step 1. Mounting Your Camera

The camera must remain steady throughout the recording process, so it is essential to set it on a steady surface. It is recommended to use the tripod to set up your camera prior to starting with the process of recording.

Suppose you don’t have an appropriate tripod or an even surface such as a bag of sand. Be sure that the camera or the object it’s placed on doesn’t move or slide over during the process of shooting.

Step 2: The Focus And Exposure

Typically, videographers keep the camera unattended when taking time-lapse photos. If you’re planning to do a similar setting, the focus prior to you beginning taking pictures is an excellent idea. Determine if utilize manual or automatic focus for your video.

If the object you’re recording moves away from the camera, then you may require the autofocus feature. If the subject remains at the same distance during the recording process, you are able to manually adjust and then lock your focus setting.

In addition, to get the perfect exposure, using an auto Iris is ideal for those who plan to be away from the camera while you are shooting. However, I’ve found that it can lead to poor-quality pictures. If you are able, try a manual iris setting to ensure that you’re going to get the proper illumination and light in your film.

Step 3: The Duration The Recording

The recording time depends on the length of the event that you are recording. You might require many memory cards inbuilt or upgraded within your camera for the task. Modern cameras are equipped with ample recording time on storage devices.

It is essential, I repeat, it’s absolutely essential to verify the memory capacity before you begin recording the video. The entire video will take up vast amounts of memory card space, and you must ensure that your camera doesn’t run over memory.

I’ve had a moment in my video in which I was unable to store any data during the filming, and did you know? It was just a few minutes before the sunrise! This really ruined the entire recording. When you record, take a look at your memory cards and then clean them to clear space if needed.

The Wrapping Up

I hope that this article provides you with some helpful information on how to shoot time-lapse videos. They look stunning and are perfect for sharing with your acquaintances as well as uploading onto YouTube. It can initially be complex and require a few tries before you are able to master the art, but it’s actually easy once you’ve mastered it.

Here are a few kinds of videos I’ve made to show you what is possible using this technique:

Cityscapes that move

People in moving traffic and walking on streets
Things people do before stepping out to the new day
Building construction (this might require stringing together the entire sequence of videos)
The waves rolling on the beach
If you’ve learned how to create a time-lapse video, take a step out and play around! Over time, you’ll become better and more proficient at the art. Enjoy shooting!