Time Lapse Calculator

How to Use the Time Lapse Calculator

The Time Lapse Calculator is a useful tool designed to help filmmakers and hobbyists plan their time-lapse sequences effectively. To get the most out of this calculator, please follow the step-by-step guide below.

Step 1: Enter the Time Between Shots

Begin by specifying the interval between your shots. This is the amount of time in seconds you choose to wait between capturing each frame.

• Input: Locate the field labeled Time Between Shots (seconds).
• Restriction: The acceptable range for shot frequency is between 0.1 and 3600 seconds. Ensure your entry falls within this range for a valid input.
• Precision: You can set this value with up to one decimal place accuracy (e.g., 1.5 seconds).

Step 2: Enter the Total Recording Duration

Next, determine the total length of time you plan to record your time-lapse sequence.

• Input: Use the field labeled Total Recording Duration (hours).
• Restriction: This input must be between 0.1 and 168 hours (which is a full week).
• Precision: You can provide up to one decimal place to specify this duration accurately (e.g., 2.5 hours).

Step 3: Select the Output Frame Rate

Decide the frame rate at which your final time-lapse video will be rendered. The frame rate impacts the fluidity of motion in the video.

• Input: Choose an option from the Output Frame Rate (fps) dropdown menu.
• Options: You can select from common frame rates such as 24 fps, 25 fps, 30 fps, and 60 fps. Choose one that fits your project’s needs (e.g., 24 fps for a cinematic look).

Step 4: View the Results

Once all inputs are correctly entered, the calculator will provide the following results based on your settings:

• Total Number of Frames: Calculated as the total duration converted to seconds, divided by the shot frequency. This value will appear as a whole number.
• Final Video Length (seconds): The total number of captured frames divided by the selected frame rate, giving the final duration of your video in seconds.
• Time Compression Ratio: Shows how much the time has been condensed in your final video, represented as a ratio prefixed by “1:”.
• Estimated Storage Required (GB): Provides an estimate of the storage space required based on the number of frames, each assumed to require 0.025 GB.

Follow these steps to plan your project effectively and ensure you have the appropriate settings for time-lapse shooting. Remember to review each input for accuracy to get the most precise results.