Timelapse Calculator
Determine intervalometer shooting intervals, required photo counts, and memory card storage for smooth video playback.
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How Timelapse Intervals are Calculated
A timelapse compresses real-world time by capturing still photographs at fixed intervals and playing them back at cinematic video speeds (24, 30, or 60 frames per second):
Total Frames Needed
Frames = Video Duration (sec) × FPS
Shooting Interval
Interval (sec) = Event Duration (sec) / Total Frames
The 180-Degree Shutter Rule in Timelapse
To prevent choppy, staccato footage, set your camera shutter exposure time to approximately half of your shooting interval (e.g. if your interval is 4 seconds, use a 2-second long exposure with an ND filter to create silky motion blur for clouds and moving water).
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I shoot timelapse in Manual mode?
Shooting in Auto exposure causes "flicker" because the camera light meter makes minute aperture and shutter adjustments between consecutive frames. Locking manual exposure, white balance, and manual focus eliminates flicker.
How fast will my camera battery drain during a timelapse?
Taking 500 to 1,000 photos continuously drains standard camera batteries in 2 to 3 hours. Turn off the LCD screen preview, disable image stabilization, and consider a USB-C dummy battery for long sessions.
What is the best interval for starry night skies?
For Milky Way astrophotography, use an interval of 20 to 25 seconds with a 15-to-20 second shutter exposure at wide open aperture (f/2.8 or faster).