Hyperlapse and motion time-lapse: moving through time
Hyperlapses combine time-lapse with camera movement for dynamic sequences. Learn the technique with a tripod, gimbal or slider.
A hyperlapse moves the camera a small distance between each frame of a time-lapse, creating a sweeping journey through a scene.
Tripod method
- Choose a fixed point to keep centered, like the cathedral tower.
- Take a photo, move the tripod a small step (30 to 50 cm), recenter on the point and shoot again.
- Repeat 150 to 300 times.
- Stabilize the sequence in software.
Gimbal method
Gimbals like the DJI RS 5 have motion-lapse and hyperlapse modes that move the camera automatically between frames on a set path.
Sliders
Motorized sliders produce smooth, short motion time-lapses, perfect for real estate interiors or product shots.
Settings
Manual exposure, manual focus and fixed white balance. Shoot RAW for flexibility, or video at high frame rate and speed it up.
Best subjects
Streets with traffic and pedestrians, plazas at sunset, clouds over haciendas and coastlines.
Patience
Hyperlapses take time and many attempts, but the results are spectacular openers for travel and city videos.
