
With its high-resolution video, waterproof construction, built-in image stabilization, compact size and low cost compared to the majority of DSLR cameras, GoPro is one of the best time lapse cameras available. Not to mention, HyperSmooth technology makes it possible to shoot a smooth action time lapse, which we call a TimeWarp.
Time Lapse Video vs. Time Lapse Photo
Learning how to time lapse with GoPro cameras is easy. To start, it helps to understand that GoPro cameras provides two time lapse modes. In both modes, GoPro cameras captures still images at regular intervals. In Time Lapse Video mode, GoPro cameras automatically stitches stills into a video file. This is the easiest way to create time lapse video.
In Time Lapse Photo mode, GoPro cameras save each still image separately and you can stitch them together yourself with your preferred software. Yes, this involves more work, but it also gives you more control.
To shoot time lapse in either mode, simply swipe left-to-right or right-to-left to select Time Lapse on the back LCD screen or toggle to Time Lapse by pressing the power button. By swiping top-to-bottom, you can access ProTune settings and choose between Time Lapse Video or Photo mode under Format.
Time Lapse vs. TimeWarp
GoPro's Time Lapse mode is used for standard time lapse capture-GoPro sits on a stable surface and doesn't move for the duration of the shot. In TimeWarp mode, GoPro applies HyperSmooth stabilization technology, which means you can move GoPro and still get smooth action time/hyper lapse shots.
Simply put: Use Time Lapse for stationary shooting and TimeWarp for movement.
Imagine capturing your marathon or a tedious road trip or even a top-to-bottom trail and being able to share quick, compelling AND dynamic content without shake. This is exactly what TimeWarp delivers. Plus, in TimeWarp, you can jump to Real Time (aka regular video)by tapping the screen, allowing you to create creative ramp-up shots.
Time Lapse settings
GoPro Time Lapse settings include:
Resolution: Shoot at up to 4K resolution with HERO11 Black Action Camera, Mini (Small Action Camera) and HERO10 Black.
Interval: This is how often GoPro cameras capture a still-anywhere from half a second to an hour.
Lens: Choose Wide, Narrow or Linear just as you would in normal video mode.
Format: Choose between Time Lapse Video or Photo mode.
Scheduled Capture: This allows you to schedule when time lapse starts. This can also be used to toggle the camera on and start capture when its been placed somewhere strategic.
Duration: Define how long GoPro should capture time lapse footage. Set to no limit to capture until you stop it.
Timer: Set a start delay so you can get into the shot (or out of it).
Zoom: Zoom in from 1.0x (all the way out) to 2.0x.
In addition, you can change ProTune settings just like in normal video mode and choose Night Lapse mode for night time lapse with more low-light friendly shutter speeds. HERO11 Black also adds three new Night Effects called Star Trails, Vehicle Lights and Light Painting modes for a whole new range of creative possibilities.
The best Time Lapse accessories
Time Lapse and TimeWarp are easy out of the box, but a few accessories can help ensure you nail the shot. For stability in Time Lapse mode, use the Volta (External Battery Grip / Tripod / Remote), which is a tripod and external battery. GoPro can shoot time lapse for as long as the battery lasts, so having an external power source is handy to extend your shoot.
Either Volta or the Enduro Rechargeable Battery will provide extra juice for long TimeWarp videos too, say on a long bike ride or hike. Finally, try the Protective Camera Housing + Waterproof Case for HERO11 Black to get intense deep water TimeWarp video.
Time Lapse is one of the coolest video effects you to experiment with, and it's a cinch with GoPro. Get out there and try your hand at some creative time lapse video today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a GoPro good for time lapse?
GoPro cameras are excellent for time lapse, both in a fixed position and on the move!
What is the best time lapse camera?
With multiple time lapse modes, HyperSmooth image stabilization and GoPros special TimeWarp mode, GoPro cameras is one of the best time lapse cameras around.
Difference between Time Lapse Video vs Time Lapse Photo vs TimeWarp on GoPro?
Time Lapse Video mode captures images at regular intervals, automatically stitching them into a video file. Time Lapse Photo captures the same images but saves them as individual files you can stitch together yourself. Finally, TimeWarp adds HyperSmooth image stabilization for moving time lapse and the ability to drop into regular video mode on the fly for cool ramp-up effects.
How long can a GoPro do a time lapse?
GoPro cameras can time lapse as long as the battery lasts and theres room on the SD card. This means it depends on the resolution you shoot at, the type of battery youre using and the size of your SD card.
How to time lapse with GoPro?
Time lapse with GoPro cameras is easy. Just choose Time Lapse mode by swiping on the home screen or pushing the power button to scroll through modes.
GoPro time lapse settings?
In Time Lapse mode, you have access to all the video and ProTune settings like resolution, color profile, field of view and so on. Plus, you can choose Time Lapse Video or Time Lapse Photo mode, interval, TimeWarp mode, scheduled capture or set a timer.
Best GoPro accessories to shoot time lapse video?
To enhance your time lapse experience, we recommend extra battery life from Volta or the Enduro Rechargeable Battery and for amazing deep water TimeWarp, add the Protective Housing.
Most recent headlines
05/01/2027
Worlds first 802.15.4ab-UWB chip verified by Calterah and Rohde & Schwarz to be ...
20/10/2026
Sony's Beyond Sports technology will power real-time animation of the game, ...
20/10/2026
The NBA is putting on a full-court press when it comes to digital offerings this year, and that includes some great new features on the NBA App as well as a new...
20/10/2026
Testing what works is an important part of developing successful fan engagement....
20/10/2026
One fan in The Nordecke will wear the device via headset on Wednesday night
Spo...
20/10/2026
Regular-season game coverage will continue to be a mix of REMI and onsite produc...
20/10/2026
Grass Valley has added Bridge Technologies to the company's Media eXchange Layer (MXL) initiative, demonstrating how this has supported the containerization...
20/10/2026
Gravity Media has rapidly deployed complete IP-based broadcast infrastructure fo...
20/10/2026
Ateme has announced a strategic partnership with Viamedia, the ad tech company b...
20/10/2026
As concerts and other live performances reach audiences through global streaming...
20/10/2026
Media Links' Xscend platform and MDP3020 IP media gateways supported live broadcast contribution for the All-Asia Games, that recently took place in Japan.
...
20/10/2026
For Major League Soccer creative teams, 2027 is going to be unlike any year they...
20/10/2026
The National Hockey League (NHL) has given a first look at its planned transform...
20/10/2026
FloSports and the National Lacrosse League (NLL) have entered into a multiyear m...
20/10/2026
The Advanced Media Workflow Association (AMWA) has received a 2026 Technology & ...
20/10/2026
Pearl TV has made significant progress in its industry-wide initiative to make NEXTGEN TV converter boxes more affordable and accessible to consumers, marking a...
20/10/2026
The 37th edition of SPORTEL Awards took place on Monday, Oct. 19 at the Grimaldi Forum Monaco, under the High Patronage of H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco. Ch...
20/10/2026
Amagi has announced a strategic partnership with Sistemas de Video Comunicaci n ...
20/10/2026
The home of cycling coverage is secure as Eurosport and TNT Sports today extend ...
20/10/2026
By Ramona Flume
One of the most exciting things about the Sundance Film Festiva...
20/10/2026
Veteran Entertainment and Brand Executive to Lead Global Communications Strategy...
20/10/2026
Inspired by late-90s & early-2000s R&B, hip-hop & club music
UJAM have just introduced two new virtual instruments that bring together a versatile selection...
20/10/2026
Synth gains free editor & librarian application
Back at Superbooth 2026, Groove Synthesis gave us a sneak preview of a desktop software application that off...
20/10/2026
With more than 30 years in the Italian broadcast market, Video Progetti will offer the complete Calrec range, giving broadcasters the freedom to choose and scal...
20/10/2026
Share
Copy link
Facebook
X
Linkedin
Bluesky
Email...
20/10/2026
Share
Copy link
Facebook
X
Linkedin
Bluesky
Email...
20/10/2026
Share
Copy link
Facebook
X
Linkedin
Bluesky
Email...
20/10/2026
Calrec has appointed Video Progetti, the Rome- and Milan-based broadcast distributor and AV system integrator, as its distribution partner for Italy. Media comp...
20/10/2026
FOR-A has collaborated with Canon to integrate PTZ camera control into the software-defined MixBoard production switcher. The resulting seamless operations wer...
20/10/2026
Great music rarely happens in isolation. It emerges when artists, producers, and songwriters exchange ideas, challenge one another, and find unexpected creative...
20/10/2026
Collaboration gives broadcast teams a faster path from network alerts to the affected equipment, system dependencies and support information
BeckTV, Beam Dyna...
20/10/2026
Share
Copy link
Facebook
X
Linkedin
Bluesky
Email...
20/10/2026
Share
Copy link
Facebook
X
Linkedin
Bluesky
Email...
20/10/2026
Share
Copy link
Facebook
X
Linkedin
Bluesky
Email...
20/10/2026
Share
Copy link
Facebook
X
Linkedin
Bluesky
Email...
20/10/2026
Share
Copy link
Facebook
X
Linkedin
Bluesky
Email...
20/10/2026
University of Washington Intercollegiate Athletics has brought its new Sundodger Studios production facility on air, with Grass Valley cameras and production sw...
20/10/2026
Live demos will include upgrades for the X510 bonding router, self-serve management for NetConnect data plans and a technology preview of future developments
...
20/10/2026
Jigsaw24 has appointed Alex Battrick as Pre-Sales Solution Consultant, strengthening its technical expertise as the company expands its offering across live pro...
20/10/2026
COW Jobs: Toronto Freelance Crew Call - Your Story - open, ongoing
Brie Clayton October 19, 2026
0 Comments
Toronto Freelance Crew Call - Your Story (...
20/10/2026
Give your photos a second chance with Open Eyes in Lightroom on mobile
Shambhavi Kadam October 19, 2026
0 Comments
You know the frustration. Everyone ...
20/10/2026
Paperwolf Studio launches eight creative OpenFX plugins for DaVinci Resolve
Brie Clayton October 19, 2026
0 Comments
Datamosh, slit-scan, camcorder lo...
20/10/2026
Share
Copy link
Facebook
X
Linkedin
Bluesky
Email...
20/10/2026
Share
Copy link
Facebook
X
Linkedin
Bluesky
Email...
20/10/2026
Share
Copy link
Facebook
X
Linkedin
Bluesky
Email...
20/10/2026
LA JOLLA, CA-The Scripps Research Alumni Network has announced the two divisional winners of its inaugural awards program, created to honor institute alumni for...
20/10/2026
2026 UNTAPPED Development Lab participants announced 20 October 2026
Top (L-R): Becki Bouchier, Carly Brand, Leslie Hornung. Bottom (L-R): Joseph Meldrum, Elle...
20/10/2026
Boston Conservatory Center Stage Presents Romantic Musical Comedy She Loves Me Conservatory musical theater students will perform the charming production, set...
20/10/2026
Rachel McFarlanes American Dialogue Premieres at Carnegie Hall The alum composer and violinists commissioned work is part of Sphinx Virtuosis nationwide tour ...
20/10/2026
Collaboration delivers comprehensive camera control and switching in a single intuitive interface...