Compressing Time: The Time-Lapse Interval
A time-lapse video is created by taking a series of photos at a set interval and then playing them back at a standard video frame rate (usually 24 or 30 fps). This creates the illusion that time is moving much faster than it actually is, making it a perfect technique for capturing slow processes like flowers blooming, clouds moving, or construction projects.
The Three Variables
- Event Duration: How long the real-world action lasts (e.g. a 2-hour sunset).
- Video Duration: How long you want the final video to be (e.g. 15 seconds).
- Frame Rate: The number of photos shown per second of video.
The Formula
To find the interval (the time between each photo), you divide the total real-world seconds by the total number of frames required for the video.
Interval (s) = (Event Duration * 60) / (Video Duration * FPS)
Where:
Event Duration=
Real-world time in minutesVideo Duration=
Desired length of the final clip in secondsFPS=
Frames per second (usually 24, 30, or 60)Choosing the Right Interval
- Fast Action (Crowds/Traffic): 1 to 2 seconds.
- Slow Action (Clouds/Sunsets): 3 to 5 seconds.
- Very Slow Action (Plants/Construction): 5 to 15 minutes.