9 Steps How to Create a Timelapse Video on Android

When documenting your best moments, various methods are available, one of which is timelapse video. Timelapse video is a recording technique where the shooting frequency is lower than the playback frequency.

As a result, time appears to move faster in the video. This technique often captures slow changes such as moving clouds, blooming flowers, or sunsets, resulting in stunning visual effects.

Take a look at this article to learn about how to create a timelapse video on Android that you can put into practice.

9 Ways of How to Make a Timelapse Video on Android

No need for a sophisticated camera; we can now make timelapse videos using just a cell phone. Here are 9 steps on how to create a timelapse video on Android phones:

1. Search for Video References

The first step on how to create a timelapse video is to look for references you can learn from before filming. It's important to view examples of cool timelapse videos to gather ideas and inspiration before going into the field.

By seeking references, you not only get ideas but also learn how to position your phone to improve your timelapse videos. From finding online resources to watching video tutorials, you can explore others' experiences and understand the necessary equipment.

2. Choose the Right Location and Object

Next, select locations and objects that match your video concept. The right choices greatly support the visuals of your timelapse. Even slight changes are noticeable over time.

For scenery, try capturing a sunrise or sunset. For a quicker timelapse, you may record plant growth or cloud movement from your balcony. However, you need to pay attention to lighting and weather conditions as they affect the final result. 

3. Pick the Appropriate Phone

To create a time-lapse video, you need to pick the right phone. Several new mobile phones come with features to easily create a time-lapse video using the built-in app.

Use a phone with a high-quality camera, especially one that has good detail capture and lighting management. For more professional results, you can use a camera with high resolution and image stabilization. Also, make sure your phone has enough battery capacity to support long video recordings. 

4. Provide Battery and Backup Memory

The next step in how to create a timelapse video is to bring a spare battery or power bank. This allows you to capture moments smoothly without worrying about the battery running out.

Additionally, make sure your phone's memory is large enough to support long timelapse recordings. Choose a memory capacity that exceeds the expected duration of your timelapse to avoid running out of space during the recording process.

5. Adjust the Tripod Position

When creating a timelapse video, you need to keep the camera in the same position for a long time. Therefore, you may use a tripod to avoid any shaking that could ruin the video. 

This ensures the phone remains still for the long recording period. A tripod also allows you to experiment with different shooting angles, resulting in a more diverse and visually appealing timelapse.

6. Open the Timelapse Feature on a Cell Phone Camera

Most smartphones come with a built-in camera app for creating time-lapse videos. With such feature, you can simply open the camera app to start creating timelapse videos.

After you open the Camera app, select the timelapse option, and set the desired speed. Tap the clock-like icon to select the speed, and the top of the screen shows the type of video that matches that speed.

Choosing the right timelapse speed is crucial for a professional look. Slower speeds highlight details and create a calm atmosphere, while faster speeds add a lively and dynamic feel. 

7. Adjust Focus and Exposure

An important step of how to create a timelapse is to set the camera focus and exposure for clear visibility of objects in the timelapse video. You also need to adjust the lighting so the image is neither too dark nor too bright.

Once the focus and exposure are set, determine the shooting interval. An interval of every 3 seconds is recommended, but you can adjust it based on your preferences and needs. 

8. Set the White Balance

White balance is an essential feature when shooting time-lapse video. In this case, however, you should avoid using an automatic white balance setting, as this can lead to inconsistent timelapse results, with flickering that makes the video difficult to view. Instead, set the white balance to match what you are shooting and make sure not to change it while recording.

9. Start Recording

Once everything is ready, the final step on how to create a timelapse video is to start recording. You will see video duration in minutes, seconds, and milliseconds indicating video length when the recording is finished. Also, please keep in mind that the phone needs to remain still and motionless during the recording process to keep the result stable.

That’s all about how to do a timelapse video on your Android. By following the guide on how to create a timelapse video, you can create interesting and high-quality timelapse videos.

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