Are you searching for the best camera for time-lapse without wanting to spend too much?
Well, you’re in luck!
In this blog, I’ve compiled a list of the 15 best and most affordable cameras for time-lapse video and photography.
What is Time-Lapse?
Time-lapse is a popular photography and videography technique that captures a scene or subject over an extended period of time. By taking a series of photos or videos at set intervals and then combining them into a single sequence, time-lapse photography and videography create a sped-up effect that shows the passing of time in a unique and beautiful way.
15 Best (Cheap) Cameras for Time-Lapse Video & Photo
Here are the 15 best cameras for time-lapse video and photo:
GoPro HERO 11 Black
- Revolutionary New Image Sensor: expansive field of view ever on a HERO camera out of...
- Unbelievable Image Quality: With 5.3K video that gives you 91% more resolution than...
- High-Res Photos + Videos, High Frame Rate: HERO11 Black’s new image sensor boosts...
The GoPro Hero 11 Black offers three time-lapse presets: Time Lapse, Time Warp, and Night Lapse. The Time Lapse preset can capture 4K Time Warp footage with a wide digital lens and includes onscreen shortcuts for changing digital lenses and a speed ramp.
Find the differences in shooting Time Lapse and Time Warp on Hero 11 in the following article: GoPro Hero 11 Time Lapse and Time Warp
Time Warp, on the other hand, lets you speed up time by using video stabilization for ultra-smooth time-lapse footage while on the move.
Read more on Time warp setting for Hero 11: GoPro Hero 11 Time Warp Settings
Lastly, the Night Lapse preset includes Star Trails, Light Painting, and Vehicle Light Trails for capturing stunning footage of the night sky and light trails.
Find more information on Night lapse presets for Hero 11: GoPro Hero 11 Night Lapse Settings
Sony ZV-1
- Ultra-wide 20mm* lens gets it all in the frame, even at arm’s length
- Large 1” sensor and F2 lens, for low-light and defocusing backgrounds
- Stay focused with Eye-AF* and autofocus tracking technology
The Sony ZV-1 features a built-in intervalometer that allows you to easily capture time-lapse sequences. You can choose from a variety of shooting modes, including stills, videos, and slow-motion footage.
The camera can shoot up to 9,999 images for a single time-lapse sequence and allows you to customize the interval time from 1 second to 60 minutes. The Sony ZV-1 also has a feature called “Smooth Skin Effect,” which smooths out blemishes and wrinkles in time-lapse footage, making it an ideal camera for creating professional-looking time-lapse videos.
DJI Osmo Action 3
- 4K HDR Video, 1 Billion Colors - HDR video delivers vivid yet natural details, even...
- Smooth, Level, Incredible - Whether you're skiing, skydiving, or biking around on...
- Built to Endure - With a 160-min max battery life, and even 150 minutes of continuous...
The DJI Osmo Action 3 offers a variety of time-lapse modes, making it a great camera for capturing the passing of time in various situations. You can choose from different intervals, including 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 13, 15, 20, 30, and 60 seconds, and the camera will capture up to 999 shots.
What’s more, the DJI Osmo Action 3 camera also features an HDR mode for capturing stunning images with greater detail and color depth. Whether you’re capturing a beautiful sunset or a bustling cityscape, the DJI Osmo Action 3 has you covered for all your time-lapse needs.
Find the best SD cards for the optimal performance of DJI Osmo Action 3: 7 Best SD Cards for DJI Osmo Action Camera
Fujifilm X-T30
- Advanced Image Sensor Technology: The 26.1MP BSI APS-C X-Trans CMOS 4 image sensor...
- Accurate Auto-Focus Tracking and Face Detection: he new X-Processor 4 Quad Core-CPU...
- Superior video and image effects: The ex-t30 offers the ability to record 4K video at...
This Fujifilm X-T30 mirrorless camera offers a range of time-lapse capabilities. You can use the built-in interval timer to capture a series of stills, which can then be turned into a time-lapse video using your favorite editing software. The camera also offers a Time-lapse Movie mode, which captures up to 999 frames at intervals of 1 second to 24 hours and creates a 4K UHD movie. With its compact size and high-quality image sensor, the Fujifilm X-T30 is a great choice for capturing time-lapse footage on the go.
Check out the list of the tops interchangeable lenses for Fujifilm X-T30: 7 Top Video Lenses for Fujifilm X Mount.
Panasonic Lumix GH5
- Professional photo and video: 20.3 Megapixel micro four thirds sensor with no low...
- Splash or Freeze Proof Design: Freeze proof to 10 degrees the durable magnesium alloy...
- Dual image stabilization: 5 axis dual image stabilization corrects all lenses,...
The Panasonic Lumix GH5 mirrorless camera is a professional-grade camera that offers a built-in intervalometer to capture a series of stills, which can then be turned into a time-lapse video using your favorite editing software. Its Time-lapse mode that captures up to 999 frames at intervals of 1 second to 99 minutes and 59 seconds, which can then be compiled in-camera to create a time-lapse movie. You can also customize exposure settings and shoot in 4K resolution for stunning time-lapse videos.
Additionally, the GH5 offers a Stop Motion Animation mode that captures individual frames at set intervals and then combines them into a video. Overall, with its advanced features and high-quality image sensor, the Panasonic Lumix GH5 is a fantastic choice for professional-grade time-lapse photography and videography.
Using a gimbal for time-lapse photography ensures smooth and consistent motion, adding a dynamic element to your shots. The stabilization and precise control offered by gimbals result in professional-quality time-lapse sequences. Find the list of the best gimbals for GH5 in the article: 5 Best Gimbals for Panasonic GH5s
Nikon Z50
- Compact, lightweight and durably constructed mirrorless camera
- First DX-format mirrorless camera to use a large 55 millimeter lens mount, offering...
- 20.9 MP sensor with robust 4K UHD video features
The Nikon Z50 is a great camera that offers several time-lapse features. It features a built-in interval timer that allows you to capture a series of stills over a set period of time. You can then use your favorite editing software to compile the stills into a time-lapse video.
The Nikon Z50 camera also features a Time-lapse Movie mode that allows you to capture up to 300 frames and create a 4K UHD time-lapse video in-camera. The Time-lapse Movie mode also allows you to preview your time-lapse video in real-time as you capture it, which is a fantastic feature. Lastly, its compact size makes the camera easy to take with you wherever you go.
Canon EOS M50 Mark II
- 24.1 megapixel (aps-c) cmos sensor with iso 100-25600 (h: 51200).
- Digic 8 image processor with auto lighting optimizer.
- Improved dual pixel cmos af and eye detection af (still/movie servo af support).
A superb camera for time-lapse photography and videography, the Canon EOS M50 Mark II also features a built-in interval timer for capturing a series of stills over a set period of time. Its Time-lapse Movie mode allows you to capture up to 3,600 stills and create a 4K UHD time-lapse video in-camera. The Time-lapse Movie mode also offers several customization options, including the ability to adjust exposure, color, and more.
Additionally, the Canon EOS M50 Mark II features a Time-lapse Add-on mode that allows you to create a time-lapse video from a series of photos taken with the camera’s Remote Shooting function. All in all, the Canon EOS M50 Mark II is a fantastic camera for capturing stunning time-lapse footage, and its compact size makes it easy to carry along.
Employing a gimbal in time-lapse photography delivers steady, uniform movement, which contributes to the dynamism of your captures. The enhanced stability and accurate control provided by gimbals lead to polished, high-quality time-lapse videos. Find the best gimbals for the Mark II: 7 Best Gimbals for Canon m50 Mark II
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV
- 20 MP Live MOS Sensor
- Always-on connection and background connection via Bluetooth & OI Share Smartphone...
- Flip-down monitor and dedicated selfie mode. Selfie mode automatically turns on when...
Another camera that can capture stunning time-lapse footage is the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV. It has a Time-lapse Movie mode that allows you to capture up to 999 stills and create a 4K UHD time-lapse video right in the camera itself. And with the ability to customize settings like exposure and white balance, you have complete control over your time-lapse footage.
But, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV’s time-lapse capabilities don’t end there! It also features a Live Composite mode that allows you to capture long-exposure images of star trails, light painting, and other similar subjects. By capturing multiple exposures and combining them into a single image, this camera is perfect for creating stunning time-lapse images.
Sony a6100
- World’s fastest AF at 0 02 sec W/ real-time AF & Object tracking
- Wide 425-phase/425-contrast detection AF points over 84% of sensor
- 24 2MP APS-C Exmor sensor w/ front end LSI and ISO up to 51 200
The Sony a6100 is a versatile camera that offers an array of features, including the ability to capture stunning time-lapse footage. With its built-in intervalometer, you can easily set up the camera to take a series of stills over a set period of time, which you can later compile into a time-lapse video using your preferred editing software.
The camera’s time-lapse capabilities also include a Time-lapse movie mode that allows you to capture stills and create a 4K UHD time-lapse video in-camera. What’s more, the Sony a6100 also offers a unique feature called “Smooth Reflection,” which allows you to capture stunning time-lapse footage of water and other reflective surfaces. This feature ensures that your time-lapse footage remains stable and smooth, even when shooting in challenging conditions.
Canon PowerShot SX740 HS
- This Paging Zone Bundle Includes: 1 NB-13L Lithium-Ion Battery Pack (3.6V, 1250mAh)...
- Canon PowerShot SX740 HS Digital Camera (Black-Import Model) – The 20.3MP sensor is...
- Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth allow the camera to connect to compatible mobile devices...
The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS is a compact camera that boasts impressive time-lapse capabilities. With its built-in intervalometer, you can easily set up the camera to take a series of stills over a set period of time, which you can later compile into a time-lapse video using your preferred editing software.
The camera’s time-lapse mode also includes the ability to adjust exposure compensation and white balance, allowing you to have complete creative control over your footage. Additionally, the camera’s high-quality lens and image stabilization technology ensure that your time-lapse footage is sharp and steady.
One unique feature of the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS is its Hybrid Auto mode, which automatically creates a daily highlight reel of your photos and videos, including any time-lapse footage you capture. This feature is perfect for those who want to capture memorable moments without having to spend a lot of time editing their footage.
For time-lapse photography with a Canon camera, it’s essential to use a reliable and fast SD card. Consider choosing a Class 10 or UHS-I (U1 or U3) SD card with ample storage capacity (32GB or higher) from a reputable brand like SanDisk, Lexar, or Samsung to ensure smooth recording and optimal performance.
Find the best SD cards for Canon cameras: Canon Cameras SD Cards (Top 10 Picks).
Panasonic Lumix FZ80
- Point and Shoot Long Zoom Camera: 18.1 megapixel MOS sensor plus 60X zooms DC Vario...
- High Resolution View Finder and LCD Display: High resolution 1,170K dot view finder...
- 4K video Capture: 4K QFHD video recording (3840 x 2160) with three unique 4K ultra HD...
The Panasonic Lumix FZ80 features an 18.1-megapixel sensor and 60x zoom lens ensure that your time-lapse footage is sharp and detailed. It has a built-in time-lapse mode that allows you to capture stunning footage of long events.
With its intuitive user interface, you can easily adjust the interval time and set the number of shots you want to take on the Panasonic Lumix FZ80. Once you have captured your stills, you can use your favorite third-party software to create a stunning time-lapse video.
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V
- Clear Image Zoom ZEISS Lens. Panorama (Recording): Intelligent Sweep Panorama...
- 20.4MP Exmor R CMOS Sensor for superb low light images
- Keep your subject in focus with Lock-On AF. Screen type: 7.5cm (3.0 type)(4:3) /...
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V is a great option for those looking to capture stunning time-lapse footage. With its intuitive interface, you can easily set the interval between shots and the number of shots you want to take. Once you’ve taken your stills, you can use software to create a time-lapse video that captures the beauty of the passing time.
The optical SteadyShot feature on the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V helps keep your footage stable and blur-free, even when shooting handheld or in low light conditions.
When capturing time-lapse photography with a Sony Cyber-shot camera, it’s crucial to use a dependable and fast SD card. Opt for a Class 10 or UHS-I (U1 or U3) SD card with sufficient storage capacity (32GB or higher) from a well-known brand such as SanDisk, Lexar, or Samsung to guarantee seamless recording and excellent performance. Find the best SD card options: Sony Cyber Shot Memory Card
Nikon COOLPIX P1000
- This Bundle Includes: Nikon COOLPIX P1000 Digital Camera + Hot Shoe Flash + 13E Pro...
- 4 Piece Close Up Kit + 3 Piece Filter Kit + Lens Hood + Telephoto Lens
- 32GB SD Memory Card
The Nikon COOLPIX P1000 is a powerful camera that offers excellent features for time lapse photography. It has an interval timer shooting mode that allows you to capture images at set intervals for a specified duration. This feature enables you to create time-lapse videos of subjects such as sunsets, landscapes, or even the night sky. The camera can take up to 9999 shots in a sequence, and you can customize the interval time, shutter speed, and exposure settings to your liking.
In addition, the Nikon COOLPIX P1000 has a 125x optical zoom lens that can capture distant subjects with incredible detail, making it an ideal camera for time-lapse photography of wildlife or other faraway subjects. Its back-illuminated CMOS sensor also allows you to shoot in low-light conditions, further expanding the creative possibilities for your time-lapse videos.
Canon EOS Rebel SL3
- Mounting type: Bayonet
- Turn your Canon camera into a high-quality webcam
- Viewfinder type: Optical
A wonderful great entry-level DSLR camera for beginners looking to experiment with time-lapse photography, the Canon EOS Rebel SL3 features a 24.1 Megapixel CMOS sensor and DIGIC 8 Image Processor, which allows for high-quality image capture and fast processing speeds. Its built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, making it easy to transfer your time-lapse photos to your computer or smartphone for editing and sharing.
The camera features a built-in intervalometer, which allows you to set the time interval between each shot, as well as the number of shots to be taken, making it easy to create time-lapse sequences. What’s more, you can also shoot in RAW format for more flexibility in post-processing.
Fujifilm FinePix XP140
- Is 100-12800, allowing for lots of light and extremely fast shutter speed
- Waterproof to 82 ft. , shockproof up to 5. 9 ft., freeze proof to 14º f and...
- Smile shutter - The new feature automatically takes the photo. When you select...
Last but not the least, the Fujifilm FinePix XP140 is a rugged and versatile camera that can handle extreme shooting conditions, making it a great option for time-lapse photography in the great outdoors. It has a time-lapse mode that allows you to set the interval between shots, the number of shots, and the playback speed to create stunning time-lapse sequences.
With its 16.4-megapixel sensor and 5x optical zoom lens, the XP140 delivers excellent image quality and detail, even in low light situations. It also has built-in WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, which makes it easy to share your time-lapse creations with friends and family.
The camera’s compact and durable design makes it easy to take with you on outdoor adventures, and its waterproof, shockproof, freeze-proof, and dustproof capabilities ensure that it can handle whatever conditions you encounter. Overall, the Fujifilm FinePix XP140 is a solid choice for those looking for an affordable and reliable camera for time-lapse photography in rugged environments.
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