Today there are few smartphones that do not have in their native cameras the function of recording videos in fast motion , or also known as Time Lapse. However, it is also true that there are still terminals that currently cannot access this feature due to the limitations of their hardware.
So we are aware of this, so, apart from telling you a series of tips to be able to record the best fast-motion videos , we will also help you find some of the best apps to convert a normal video to fast-motion. Therefore, pay close attention if you want to know how to make the most of this function of your terminal’s camera.
What is Time Lapse
Time lapse is a technique that has been used to a great extent in the world of cinema. But, basically, it consists of having a photo or video camera with which to capture images in different sequences to create a time lapse , hence its name. Once this type of video recording has been made, by setting it at a normal speed, we will be able to appreciate how time seems to move much faster, creating an incredible effect between speed and time. That is, we will be manipulating time with static images.
In addition, when making this type of recordings with our mobile, we will get to observe an evolution in the objects and events that, normally, could take from a few minutes, to hours, days or even months. One of the clearest examples is the one done with flowers or the starry sky.
How to record a video in fast motion
As we have already been announcing, everything will depend on whether our mobile has enough technology to be able to record these types of videos without using any third-party app. So, in general, there are two ways to do a time-lapse. The first option will be to take different photos and stitch them together with a video editing program .
The second option will be the easy version, record with the camera of our smartphone if it offers us a fast camera option . Or, if it does not give us that possibility, we must use one of the applications that we recommend later.
What will you need
A smartphone
It seems logical, but you must have a mobile that has good specifications in terms of its camera, since it will greatly influence the final result. If you have this time-lapse option in your native camera, much better, if not, you will be able to install an app.
A tripod
This extra accessory will be almost essential, although do not worry about its price, because you can find great bargains for just 20 euros. In addition to that they will serve you for other devices such as cameras. There are even tripods that have a remote trigger , which will be very useful. Likewise, we recommend a tripod that has flexible legs, so you can place them wherever you want. But if you don’t have a tripod, you can try a mobile stand. However, it is important that you keep in mind that during the recording the phone never has to move, as it could completely annoy the video.
Good location and encadre
The mounting location you choose to start recording your fast-motion video will be one of the most important elements. This is because you must choose a place with good lighting since, unfortunately, no mobile has a time lapse with night mode to help us make up for the lack of light. So you should know how to choose the perfect time of day to carry out said recording. In addition to the light, you also have to take into account the framing that you want to give it to achieve the desired impact. So we advise you to plan what you want to record on video and not improvise.
Large amount of battery
When you go to record in fast motion make sure you have a considerable battery , as this type of recording will consume a significant amount of resources on our smartphone. However, you can always have an external battery in case you need it, although it is not really essential.
Sufficient storage
Before you start recording you will have to have enough space on your mobile device. Since, if you run out of space in the middle of a session, you may lose essential frames to give continuity and fluidity to your video. In addition, fast-motion videos take up much more space than a normal video , so you will have to take a good look at how much free storage your device has.
The best Android apps
As we have explained before, not all mobiles have this functionality in their cameras. So our only alternative in those cases will be to install an app that gives us this possibility. These are the best available today on Google Play to create the best time lapse.
Framelapse
Over the years it has become one of the oldest apps on Google Play to be able to record fast-motion videos. Luckily, we can find it for free , although there is also a paid version. In this app we will have the possibility to choose the speed interval, that is, every how many seconds it will take a photo. And it will also let us select a maximum duration and adjust the resolution.
Lapse It
This app can be downloaded for both Android and iOS mobiles. And the best thing about this application is that we can modify certain parameters such as the time interval in which you want the photos, something really very useful. Although to modify some of them we will need you to have the Pro version, which is paid.
Time Lapse Camera
Although this app does not have great stability, it is true that it will give us the necessary functions to record a time lapse and it is very easy to use. In addition, with it we can create fast-motion videos from both photos and videos . This last option would be the most similar to the function that we would have in the native camera of our mobile, and we can download it for free on Google Play .
