Time lapse videos have become increasingly popular, and are now much simpler to create. That's thanks to consumer-level products in the digital age making this video technique accessible for aspiring filmmakers, as well as pro videographers. What was once only possible by professional videographers with high-end tools is now made easier than ever to experiment with.
These days, whether you're making a GoPro time lapse, using a video camera, or using the best budget time lapse camera, you can improve your results and limit the risk of disappointment with just a little bit of understanding.
By speeding things up, videos can highlight the beauty of things like transition and movement. So, if you're wondering how to time lapse a video, you're in a good spot. Let's find out how to create something great with some time lapse video tips.
Last updated: June 2026
What Exactly Is a Time Lapse Video?
Time-lapse videos are essentially a large number of still images captured on a time lapse camera over a long period of time, played back at a quick speed. It results in a representation of a large passage of time played seamlessly and fast. A time lapse is created by the capture rate of the images being slower than the playback rate, which results in time appearing to move quickly on playback.
Can Any Camera Create a Time Lapse Video?
To some degree, yes. Technically any camera that can take a photo can be used to create a time lapse video, but certain things make some more practical than others. For example, time lapse videos involve hundreds of images captured over a long period of time, which would be incredibly time-consuming with a regular camera. So, it's much easier with some sort of built-in automation.
When choosing a dedicated camera for time lapse purposes, we suggest starting your search in the DSLR or Mirrorless markets, as these cameras have larger image sensors for capturing better quality images. Low light settings are no issue, and these cameras have more advanced manual functions.
Other Things to Look for in a Time Lapse Camera
- A built-in time lapse mode or intervalometer to control how many shots are taken, or compatibility with a remote intervalometer
- Manual settings
- Large storage capacity
- Water-proofing, for when you're filming for a long period of time outdoors
- Long battery life
What Else Do I Need?
The type of equipment needed to master your time lapse can vary depending on what you're shooting. Still, there are a few accessories you'll need no matter what. These include:
- A tripod. For your time lapse to look seamless on playback, you want your field of view to remain as steady as possible, and the easiest way to achieve this is with a sturdy tripod for time lapse videos.
- A large capacity memory card. A time lapse video is made up of hundreds, if not thousands, of photos. Making a time lapse that's one minute long would mean capturing between 1,440 and 1,800 images. Knowing how long your video will end up being is a good way to gauge if your memory card is large enough, or if you'll need another.
- An intervalometer. As mentioned, an intervalometer is a device that can automatically set up your camera to take a predetermined number of images at a set interval over a period of time. It saves you from sitting around for hours and manually pressing the shutter of your camera.
- Spare battery or battery grip. Taking a high volume of images will use up battery power, quickly. To make sure you don't have to call it quits before you've captured all your images, pack a spare battery, or two. For continuity when shooting, consider using a battery grip if your camera is compatible to allow for the use of two batteries.
Final Hints for Creating Next-Level Time Lapse Videos
- Use manual focus, and adjust your ISO, shutter speed, and aperture manually. Autofocus is awesome for taking sharp, still images, but if you use it for time lapse videos, you run the risk of your camera choosing a different focal point and lighting settings with each shot, causing distracting shifts during your time lapse.
- Shoot your images in RAW mode. If your camera allows it, do this for post-production ease. You can easily adjust your RAW files to be of consistent exposure and white balance levels, with batch edits available in most software to drastically speed up the process.
- Finalise your video in a video editing program. If you're creating your time lapse manually and not using an in-camera time lapse mode, there are many high-quality software options available that all do an excellent job such as Filmora, Corel VideoStudio Pro, and iMovie.
Experiment with Time Lapse Today
Now that you've got all these tips on how to make a time lapse video, you're well on your way to making some movie magic! Browse Ted's blog for photography advice, or take a look around at high-quality photography equipment.
Choosing the Right Camera for Time Lapse
Choosing the right camera timelapse setup is one of the most important decisions you'll make before shooting. DSLRs and mirrorless cameras offer the most control, allowing you to manually adjust aperture, shutter speed, and ISO — all critical for consistent time lapse results. Action cameras like GoPro are compact and great for outdoor or adventure time lapses. Many modern smartphones also feature a built-in time lapse mode, making them a surprisingly capable starting point. When evaluating a camera timelapse solution, look for intervalometer support (built-in or accessory), manual exposure controls, and reliable battery life. The right camera for your time lapse will depend on your subject, environment, and the level of creative control you need.
How to Shoot Time-Lapse Videos: Step-by-Step
Knowing how to shoot time-lapse videos comes down to preparation and consistency. Start by securing your camera on a sturdy tripod — any movement between frames will ruin the result. Set your camera to manual mode to lock in exposure settings so brightness doesn't flicker between shots. Choose your interval (the gap between each photo) based on how fast your subject moves — clouds may need 5–10 seconds, while a sunset works well at 15–30 seconds. Use a low ISO to reduce noise and a shutter speed roughly double your interval for natural motion blur. Shoot in RAW for maximum editing flexibility. Always do a short test sequence before committing to a long shoot to confirm your settings are dialled in.
Time Lapse Video Production: Editing and Exporting Your Footage
Time lapse video production doesn't end when you stop shooting — editing is where your sequence comes to life. Import your image sequence into editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Lightroom, or free tools like DaVinci Resolve. Apply consistent colour grading across all frames before compiling them into a video sequence, typically played back at 24–30 frames per second. Add smooth transitions, background music, or combine your time lapse with regular-speed footage for a dynamic final edit. When exporting, use H.264 or H.265 at 1080p or 4K depending on your source images. Proper time lapse video production workflow — from capture to export — is what separates a rough sequence from a polished, professional-looking final film worth sharing.