My time lapse is choppy??? at DVinfo.net

Marco Giordani · May 10th, 2010, 12:28 PM

How do I edit my timelapse recording so it looks smooth? I recorded 5 seconds every 30 seconds and a few things in the frame, such as trees, US Flag, blowing look choppy. I am using the latest FCP.

Thanks for your help.

Mark Wheelan · May 10th, 2010, 04:17 PM

I don't think you'll get a smooth image using that method, its more of "skip" or intermittent method. 1 frame per second might give you some improved results filming a room of people or boats in a harbor ....but not so much on flowing objects like trees or flags.

If I understand correctly what are looking for: I usually just shoot a steady shot for a long period and then speed it up in the editor. You can skip frames and/or speed up the velocity (Vegas). For trees and flags I would speed the velocity with some motion blur. (x4 each render until you achieve the speed you're looking for). It may be just my imagination, but I believe I get the best results with x2 speed on the first render and motion blur. You have to be careful with motion blur so you don't lose your definition as you progressively render it.. AfterEffects might make it even smoother but I'm not proficient with it yet.

I'm kinda' interested in what the pros have to say also. I've been doing some of this for my own stock footage and composites.

May 10th, 2010, 12:28 PM	#1
Marco Giordani Regular Crew Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Pittsburgh, PA Posts: 37	My time lapse is choppy??? How do I edit my timelapse recording so it looks smooth? I recorded 5 seconds every 30 seconds and a few things in the frame, such as trees, US Flag, blowing look choppy. I am using the latest FCP. Thanks for your help.

May 10th, 2010, 04:17 PM	#2
Mark Wheelan Regular Crew Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Kern County, Calif Posts: 53	I don't think you'll get a smooth image using that method, its more of "skip" or intermittent method. 1 frame per second might give you some improved results filming a room of people or boats in a harbor ....but not so much on flowing objects like trees or flags. If I understand correctly what are looking for: I usually just shoot a steady shot for a long period and then speed it up in the editor. You can skip frames and/or speed up the velocity (Vegas). For trees and flags I would speed the velocity with some motion blur. (x4 each render until you achieve the speed you're looking for). It may be just my imagination, but I believe I get the best results with x2 speed on the first render and motion blur. You have to be careful with motion blur so you don't lose your definition as you progressively render it.. AfterEffects might make it even smoother but I'm not proficient with it yet. I'm kinda' interested in what the pros have to say also. I've been doing some of this for my own stock footage and composites.