Time Lapse Calculator
Calculate perfect timing for your time-lapse photography projects
Time Lapse Calculator
Table of Contents
How to Calculate Time Lapse
Time-lapse calculations involve three key components:
- Real Duration: How long the actual event takes to occur
- Playback Duration: How long you want the final video to be
- Frame Rate: Frames per second in the final video (typically 24-30 fps)
The calculator determines the frame interval (time between photos) and total number of frames needed using these formulas:
- Speed Ratio = Real Duration ÷ Playback Duration
- Total Frames = Playback Duration × Frame Rate
- Frame Interval = Real Duration ÷ Total Frames
Planning Your Time Lapse
Before You Shoot
- Scout your location and timing
- Check weather conditions
- Calculate storage requirements
- Ensure sufficient battery life
- Use a sturdy tripod
- Test your interval timer
During the Shoot
- Use manual camera settings
- Disable auto-focus
- Shoot in RAW format
- Monitor battery levels
- Avoid touching the camera
- Keep consistent lighting
Equipment & Settings
Essential Equipment
- DSLR or mirrorless camera with interval timer
- Sturdy tripod with good stability
- Extra batteries or external power source
- High-capacity memory cards
- Neutral density filters for daylight shoots
Recommended Camera Settings
- Manual mode (M) for consistent exposure
- Manual focus to prevent hunting
- RAW format for maximum editing flexibility
- Image stabilization OFF to save battery
- LCD review OFF to extend battery life
Common Time Lapse Subjects
Fast-Moving Subjects
- Clouds: 1-5 second intervals
- Traffic: 1-3 second intervals
- People walking: 1-2 second intervals
- Sunrise/sunset: 2-5 second intervals
Slow-Moving Subjects
- Plant growth: 10-30 minute intervals
- Construction: 5-15 minute intervals
- Shadows moving: 30 second - 2 minute intervals
- Tides: 1-5 minute intervals
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ideal frame rate for time-lapse videos?
Most time-lapse videos use 24-30 fps for smooth playback. 24 fps gives a cinematic feel, while 30 fps provides smoother motion. For web content, 30 fps is commonly used.
How do I determine the right interval between shots?
The interval depends on your subject's speed of change. Fast-moving clouds might need 1-5 second intervals, while plant growth could need 10-30 minute intervals. Use this calculator to find the optimal interval for your desired final video length.
What's the minimum number of photos needed for a time-lapse?
For smooth motion, you need at least 24-30 photos per second of final video. A 10-second time-lapse at 30 fps requires 300 photos minimum.
How much storage space will I need?
Storage depends on your camera's file size. A typical DSLR RAW file is 20-50MB. For 1000 photos, you'd need 20-50GB of storage space. Always bring extra memory cards for longer shoots.