How to Timelapse on Android

We may earn a commission for purchases through links on our site at no cost to you, Learn more.

• Timelapse photography captures a series of photos over time and compresses them into a short video.
• Most Android devices come with a built-in timelapse mode in the camera app.
• Third-party apps like Lapse It and Framelapse offer more customization and control.
• Stabilizing your phone with a tripod or solid surface is crucial for smooth footage.
• Best subjects for timelapse include nature, urban scenes, and creative projects.
• Good lighting, sufficient storage, and battery life are important for long shoots.
• Editing options include in-app tools or advanced video editing apps like Adobe Premiere Rush.
• Timelapse videos can be easily shared on social media platforms for high engagement.

Timelapse photography is a fantastic technique that lets you capture and compress long events into a short, mesmerizing video. Whether it’s the movement of clouds, the blooming of a flower, or a bustling city scene, time-lapse videos offer a unique way to experience the passage of time in seconds or minutes. If you’re an Android user, you’re in luck! Most modern Android devices have powerful cameras and apps that make it easy to create stunning timelapse videos.

In this blog post, we’ll explain how to timelapse on Android, covering everything from the basics to more advanced techniques. Whether you’re a beginner or someone with some photography experience, this guide will help you make the most of your Android device for time-lapse photography.

How to Timelapse on Android

Before we dive into how to timelapse on Android, it’s important to understand what a timelapse is. Simply put, a timelapse video is made by capturing a series of photos at set intervals and then playing them back quickly to create a video. While a regular video captures 24-60 frames per second, a timelapse might capture just one frame per second (or even fewer), giving the illusion of time speeding up.

For example, imagine capturing a sunset over two hours. Instead of recording a two-hour video, you take a picture every 10 seconds. When you play the frames back, the sunset that took hours to unfold will appear in seconds.

With the rapid evolution of smartphone technology, timelapse photography, which was once the domain of high-end cameras, is now accessible to anyone with an Android phone. Here’s how to get started.

Use Your Android Camera’s Built-In Timelapse Mode

Most Android devices released in recent years have a built-in timelapse mode in their camera app, making it incredibly easy to get started. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to timelapse on Android using the native camera app:

Steps

1. Open the Camera App: Launch your phone’s default camera app.
2. Find Timelapse Mode: Look through the available shooting modes by swiping left or right or clicking on the settings or mode button (this may differ depending on your phone’s brand). Look for “Timelapse” or “Hyperlapse” mode.
3. Set Up Your Shot: Frame your shot. Since timelapse videos capture changes over time, choose a subject or scene where movement is expected, like moving clouds, traffic, or a plant growing.
4. Stabilize Your Phone: It’s essential to keep your phone stable when shooting timelapse videos. Use a tripod or place your phone on a solid surface to avoid shaky footage.
5. Start Recording: Once everything is in place, hit the record button and let the timelapse capture the scene for as long as necessary. Depending on what you’re filming, you may need to leave the camera running for several minutes to several hours.
6. Save and Share: Once you’ve captured enough footage, stop recording. Your Android phone will automatically compile the frames into a timelapse video, which you can watch, edit, or share instantly.

Pros

• Quick and Easy: The built-in camera app makes it simple to create timelapses with minimal setup.
• No Extra Downloads: You don’t need any third-party apps.

Cons

• Limited Customization: You might not have much control over frame rates or interval settings.
• Basic Editing Options: The editing tools may be limited compared to third-party apps.

Third-Party Apps for Timelapse on Android

While many Android phones have a built-in timelapse feature, you might want more control over settings like interval timing, exposure, and playback speed. In such cases, using a third-party app can be incredibly helpful. Here’s a look at some of the best apps for how to timelapse on Android:

1. Lapse It

Lapse It is one of the most popular time-lapse apps available for Android. It offers greater flexibility and control than most default camera apps, making it ideal for users looking to create professional-quality time-lapse videos.

Key Features

• Adjustable frame rate and intervals.
• Full HD support (Pro version).
• Manual controls for white balance, exposure, and focus.
• Ability to add music to your timelapse video.

How to Use Lapse It

1. Download and install Lapse It from the Google Play Store.
2. Open the app and select “New Capture” to start shooting.
3. Set the interval between shots and choose the frame rate for playback.
4. Begin recording and let the app work its magic.
5. Once recording is finished, you can edit the video, add effects, and export it.

2. Framelapse

Framelapse is another excellent option for those who want more control over their time-lapse videos. It’s user-friendly and offers several customizable features, even in the free version.

Key Features

• Adjustable intervals from milliseconds to minutes.
• Resolution and frame rate settings.
• Exposure lock and white balance control.
• Simple interface with easy-to-use controls.

How to Use Framelapse

1. Download and install Framelapse from the Play Store.
2. Set your desired frame interval, resolution, and frame rate.
3. Position your Android phone, stabilize it, and start recording.
4. After recording, Framelapse will compile the frames into a smooth video, which you can then save or share.

Both apps offer great flexibility and are perfect for learning how to timelapse on Android. They provide much more control than the default camera apps and are highly recommended for enthusiasts or those looking for better-quality videos.

Best Practices for Timelapse Photography

When learning how to timelapse on Android, there are some essential best practices to keep in mind to ensure your videos look professional and smooth. Here are some tips that can help:

1. Choose the Right Subject

Timelapse works best when there’s noticeable movement or change in the scene. Ideal subjects include:

• Nature: Sunsets, moving clouds, flowing water, or blooming flowers.
• Urban Life: People walking, traffic, or city lights.
• Art Projects: Processes like painting or drawing over time.

2. Use a Stable Platform

Shaky footage can ruin a timelapse video. Use a tripod or place your Android phone on a steady surface. If you’re shooting outdoors, ensure that the wind or passing vehicles won’t cause any movement in your phone.

3. Shoot in Good Lighting

While timelapse is excellent for capturing the passage of time, poor lighting can result in dark or grainy videos. Ensure you have ample light, whether natural or artificial, to achieve crisp, clear shots.

4. Battery Life and Storage

Timelapse videos can take a long time to shoot, especially if you’re capturing something like the movement of stars or a lengthy art project. Ensure your phone is fully charged or connected to a power source. Additionally, check your phone’s storage capacity, as timelapse videos can take up significant space.

Editing Your Timelapse Videos

Once you’ve captured your timelapse video, you may want to make some adjustments before sharing it. Some third-party apps, like Lapse It, come with built-in editing tools. However, you can also use standalone editing apps to polish your video further. Here are a few editing options to enhance your timelapse:

1. In-App Editing

Apps like Lapse It or Framelapse often include basic editing tools. You can adjust the speed, apply filters, and sometimes add music.

2. Dedicated Video Editors

Consider using dedicated video editing apps like Adobe Premiere Rush, Kinemaster, or FilmoraGo for more advanced editing. These apps allow you to:

• Trim and cut parts of your timelapse.
• Add soundtracks or voiceovers.
• Adjust color and contrast.
• Insert text or transitions.

3. Sharing Your Timelapse

Once your timelapse video is edited, you can easily share it directly from your Android device to social media platforms like Instagram, YouTube, or TikTok. Timelapse videos are visually engaging, making them perfect for capturing attention online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the related questions people also ask:

What is the best app for creating a timelapse on Android?

Some of the best apps for creating timelapse videos on Android include Lapse It and Framelapse, offering customizable settings for intervals, resolution, and frame rates, with more control than the default camera app.

How do I enable timelapse on my Android phone?

To enable timelapse on Android, open your phone’s camera app, navigate the shooting modes, and select “Timelapse” or “Hyperlapse” mode. Set up your shot, stabilize your phone, and start recording.

How long should I record for a timelapse?

The length of your recording depends on the subject and the desired effect. For fast-moving subjects like traffic, 10-20 minutes may be enough, while slower changes like sunsets or plant growth may require hours of recording.

Can I adjust the speed of a timelapse video on Android?

Many timelapse apps like Lapse It or Framelapse allow you to adjust the playback speed and interval settings. You can also use video editing apps like Adobe Premiere Rush or Kinemaster to modify the speed after recording.

How can I stabilize my phone while shooting a timelapse?

To stabilize your phone for a timelapse, use a tripod or place it on a solid, flat surface. This prevents shaky footage and ensures a smooth, professional-looking timelapse video.

How much storage do timelapse videos take up on Android?

The storage required for a timelapse depends on the duration, resolution, and frame rate settings. Longer time-lapses in high resolution (e.g., 4K) will take up significantly more space, so ensure you have enough storage before recording.

Can I add music to my timelapse video on Android?

You can add music to your timelapse videos using apps like Lapse It, which allows you to insert music tracks during editing. Alternatively, video editing apps like FilmoraGo or Kinemaster offer advanced sound editing features.

The Bottom Line

Learning how to timelapse on Android opens up a new world of creative possibilities. With just your phone, you can capture the wonders of the world in a completely new perspective, from the slow movement of stars across the night sky to the hustle and bustle of a busy street.

Whether you use your phone’s built-in timelapse mode or download a third-party app for more customization, creating timelapse videos on Android is accessible and fun. Before you begin shooting, remember to choose the right subject, stabilize your phone, and ensure you have enough storage and battery life.

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering timelapse photography on Android, capturing breathtaking and fleeting moments. So grab your Android phone, pick a scene, and start experimenting with timelapse today!