Time lapse add a cinematic flair to your videos, offering a unique way to enhance your footage. I often utilize this technique with my GoPro Held 12 when I have the time to dedicate to crafting a quality time-lapse or warp.

This article will guide you through setting up your camera for Time Lapse videos in day and night time and provide you with valuable tips on how to make your GoPro Hero 12 Time Lapse better.

 

What is Time Lapse


Time-lapse photography involves taking a sequence of photos at predetermined intervals, which are later combined into a video that speeds up time, showcasing changes that take place over an extended period in just a few moments.

hero 12 time lapse photo

The technique is stationary, with the camera fixed in a single location, enabling the transformation of extended events into short, impactful visual narratives.

The essence of time-lapse is to document the subtle shifts within a scene, capturing anything from cloud movements and bustling urban scenes to the transition from sunset to a night sky adorned with stars.

Essential Aspects to Consider

  • Interval Shooting: Time-lapse relies on capturing a sequence of images at set intervals, which are subsequently presented as a video to give the impression of accelerated time.
  • Interval Adjustments: Fine-tuning the interval, or the duration between each photograph, is essential. Shorter intervals are better for quickly changing scenes, whereas longer intervals are ideal for capturing slower, more gradual changes.
  • Planning the Duration: To effectively plan a time-lapse, consider the desired length of your final video and calculate the total shots required. This calculation will guide your choices regarding the interval length and the total time needed for shooting.

GoPro Hero 12 Time Lapse Settings


In this segment, let’s delve into the optimal settings for creating time lapses:

Time Lapse Interval

This setting determines the frequency at which your GoPro Hero 12 takes a photo in Time Lapse video and photo modes. Here’s a guide to selecting the right interval for various scenarios:

  • 0.5 (default) to 2 seconds: Best for capturing fast-paced activities like surfing, biking, or other sports.
  • 2 seconds: Ideal for lively scenes such as a busy street corner.
  • 5 to 10 seconds: Suitable for slower changes in the environment, like moving clouds or lengthy outdoor events.
  • 10 seconds to 1 minute: Good for documenting art projects or prolonged activities.
  • 1 minute to 1 hour: Recommended for lengthy time lapses, such as construction projects or long-term events.

time lapse with gopro hero 12

 

Time Lapse Video Duration

Different intervals can produce varied lengths of video footage:

  • 0.5 seconds: Creates 5 minutes and 20 seconds of video.
  • 1 second: Leads to 5 minutes and 10 seconds of video.
  • 2 seconds: Generates 10 minutes and 10 seconds of video.
  • 5 seconds: Amounts to 1 hour and 20 seconds of video.
  • 10 seconds: Results in 1 hour and 10 seconds of video.
  • 30 seconds: Captures 5 hours and 20 seconds of video.
  • 1 minute: Achieves 5 hours and 10 seconds of video.
  • 2 minutes: Produces 5 hours and 5 seconds of video.
  • 5 minutes: Compiles into 10 hours and 4 seconds of video.
  • 30 minutes: Expands to 1 week of video.
  • 1 hour: Concludes with 1 week and 5 seconds of video.

Expert Tip: For optimal time lapse quality, it’s crucial to stabilize your camera using a tripod or a steady platform to eliminate any potential wobble or shake.

Night Lapse Settings Guide


In this section, we delve into the key Night Lapse settings that will empower you to craft breathtaking time-lapse videos in low-light scenarios.

However, if you want to receive more information on a night lapse with your GoPro Hero 12, read this article>>>

Choosing the Right Night Lapse Interval

The interval selection is pivotal for capturing the essence of your night scenes. The GoPro Hero 12 offers a spectrum of Night Lapse intervals to cater to your creative needs, ranging from Auto (the default setting) to specific time intervals, providing versatility for your nocturnal photography pursuits. Available intervals are Auto, 4, 5, 10, 15, 20, 30 seconds, and 1, 2, 5, 30, and 60 minutes.

  • Auto (default): Matches the interval to the Shutter speed to take photos as efficiently as possible according to the Shutter speed. For example, setting the shutter speed to 10 seconds with Auto interval means a photo is taken every 10 seconds.

gopro hero 12 time lapse

Interval Suggestions for Night Lapse

  • 4-5 seconds: Perfect for capturing vibrant cityscapes, streetlights, or scenes with gentle movement.
  • 10-15 seconds: Best for darker settings with slower transitions, like clouds moving under moonlight.
  • 20-30 seconds: Ideal for extremely low light situations or capturing the stars in minimal ambient light.

These interval choices allow you to tailor your approach based on the lighting conditions and dynamics of the scene, enabling you to document the enchantment of the night through captivating Night Lapse sequences.

How To Make Your Time Lapse Better


Here are key strategies to enhance your Time Lapse captures:

Stabilize Your Camera

Achieving a professional look starts with stability. A high-quality tripod or stabilizer that’s compatible with your GoPro Hero 12 Black will help eliminate camera shake, ensuring your videos are smooth.

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Experiment with Motion

Adding movement in Time Warp mode can yield intriguing results. Try panning, tilting, or tracking to introduce dynamic elements into your videos. For seamless motion, a motorized gimbal can be incredibly effective.

Keep an Eye on Battery Life

Time Lapse and Time Warp shooting can drain your battery. Monitor your GoPro Hero 12 Black’s power levels, and have backup batteries or a power bank ready to avoid missing important shots.

Choose Your Interval Wisely

The interval between shots is pivotal. For fast-moving subjects, intervals of 1-2 seconds are effective, whereas longer intervals suit slower scenic changes. Tailor the interval to the rhythm of your scene.

Play with Video Speed

Time Warp mode gives you the freedom to manipulate video speed. Experimenting with various speeds can add a dramatic flair or heightened excitement to your footage. Explore different settings to discover what best narrates your visual tale.

tips for time lapse

Be Mindful of Lighting

Lighting is crucial, particularly in Time Lapse. Adjust exposure settings for consistent lighting across your sequence. For nighttime lapses, a lower ISO can help minimize noise.

Consider Composition

Like in photography, composition matters in Time Lapse and Time Warp. Thoughtfully frame your shots, utilizing leading lines, engaging angles, and elements in the foreground to captivate your audience.

Utilize ND Filters

Neutral density (ND) filters manage exposure in bright conditions, allowing slower shutter speeds for smoother motion in your Time Warp videos. They’re invaluable under the glaring sun, ensuring your footage remains clear and undistorted.

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Post-Edit Your Work

Post-production can significantly enhance your Time Lapse and Time Warp projects. Use video editing software to refine colors, incorporate music, and smooth out any shaky segments, elevating your final piece to professional standards.

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I hope that it was helpful in teaching you everything you need to choose the best GoPro Hero 12 Time lapse 🙂

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