The one formula behind every timelapse: video length × fps × interval. A worked example, plus typical lengths and intervals.
How Long Does Your Timelapse Capture?
Maybe you forgot, or maybe you never checked. Now you have a short video and you want to know how long you really recorded for. Well you're in luck because all you need to do is use this free tool ⬇️.
Use the free time lapse calculator
Example
A 10-second timelapse at 30FPS with a 2-second interval is:
- 300 frames
- 600 seconds recorded in real time (10 minutes)
The Formula
It's simple really
Real Time = Video Length x FPS x Interval
If you'd rather not do the maths each time, Tau shows the finished length as you set up a recording.
Quick answers
How long should my timelapse be?
Most are ~5-15 seconds, but it really depends on the subject.
What FPS should I use?
24 or 30FPS is standard.
What interval should I use?
- For fast movement: 1-3 seconds
- For slow movement: 5 seconds+