Timelapse videos are fascinating because its the best way to record motion over a lengthy duration. Then compress it into a short and visually stunning clip. There are many ways to edit the timelapse videos but each has its own level of effectiveness.
Even though some methods could be the greatest, or it would be the most boring. Good things come to the people who have a high level of patience.
Still, capturing the timelapse videos is just the half battle. The real magic happens while editing the recorded video. If you are a beginner and dont know how to edit the time lapse videography like a pro then there is no need to worry about it. This guide will help you learn each step to edit a raw footage like a professional.
What is Timelapse Video Editing?
Before diving into the process of video editing, it is necessary to understand what is timelapse video editing. Why is it so important? Every professional videographer and photographer knows the importance of editing but more than that, they knows how important it is to capture it professionally.
Timelapse videos are created by recording individual frames at specified times and then assembling them together. To improve the results, the clips are edited in post-production by updating the speed, colors and overall composition. Even if you are a beginner, you can still create the time-lapse videos like a professional by learning all the basic techniques and deep understanding of tools.
Tools You Need to Edit Timelapse Videos
Before starting the process of video editing, make sure you have these following tools:
Editing Software: You should have access of premium tools like Final Cut Pro, DaVinci Resolve, and Adobe Premiere. These all video tools offer robust solutions for professionals in video editing. But if you are a beginner and want free tools, you can go with tools like iMovie or HitFilm Express.
Computer with Good Specs: Make sure your computer or laptop has sufficient RAM and a good, fast processor. Because time lapse videos are heavy files and it need sufficient space.
Raw Footage: Get your footage prepared before you start editing. The footage should be shot using a DSLR, a smartphone app that supports timelapse capture or a mirrorless camera.
Step-by-Step Guide to Editing Timelapse Videos
1. Import and Organize Your Footage
The initial step is importing your raw footage into any video editing software. Here are some steps how to do it efficiently:
- Open your editing software and create a new project.
- Import your images or video files into the project timeline.
It is recommended to import the timelapse photographs in sequence if you captured them individually.
Tip: To keep organized while editing, give each file a correct name, put them in their own folder, and make sure you have a backup in case of loss.
2. Adjust Frame Rate
One of the important things you need to do is adjust the frame rate of your timelapse sequence. As most of the videos are shot at 30, 60 or 40 frames each second. However, timelapse videos often required a different approach. So make sure you have a proper idea about it.
- To have a cinematic experience, try setting your frame rate to 24 or 30 frames per second. This means your editing software will play 24 or 30 images per second in the final video, giving it a smooth motion.
- Speed up the footage: You can change the speed of your timelapse to fit hours of footage into just a few seconds if it seems too slow.
3. Stabilize the Footage
Timelapse footage can often look shaky, especially if you shot it handheld or during windy conditions. Most editing software offers built-in stabilization tools that can fix this:
- In Adobe Premiere Pro, use the “Warp Stabilizer” effect.
- In Final Cut Pro, go to the “Stabilization” option under the inspector panel.
- Stabilization ensures that your final video is steady, making it more enjoyable to watch.
4. Color Correction and Grading
Raw time lapse movies might not always looks great when its first taken. The colors may appears flat, or the exposure might could look be wrong. Its alright if your first shot video did not giving the desired results. You can adjust the grading colors or do some color adjustment to make it look better.
Color Correction: Adjust the white balance, brightness, contrast, and shadows to make your footage look natural.
Color Grading: Once the footage looks balanced, you can apply colour grading for a stylistic look.
Most editing software has basic tools for fixing colours, but for more complex looks, you can edit single frames in Adobe Lightroom or Luminar before adding them back to the video series.
5. Add Transitions and Effects
To make your video more engaging, think about adding transsection, or you can add any suitable effects between different sequences.
- Fade in and fade out transitions are simple yet effective for smooth scene changes.
- You can also do some experiment with more dynamic transitions. Such as, zoom-ins or pan effects to make a sense of motion within your timelapse.
6. Include Music or Sound Effects
The music in your timelapse movie sets the mood very well. Choose a soundtrack that complements the mood of your video.
- You can find royalty-free music on social platforms like YouTube Audio Library, Artlist, or Epidemic Sound.
- Align your changes with the music beats to make the viewing experience more interesting.
7. Export Your Timelapse Video
The last thing you need to do is export the movie, once you’re happy with your edits. It is important to pick the right export choices because each platform needs a different set of settings.
For YouTube: Export in 1080p or 4K with a frame rate of 24-30 fps.
For Instagram: Consider exporting in a 1:1 or 9:16 aspect ratio for vertical viewing, and keep the duration under 60 seconds.
Tip: Use the H.264 codec for a good balance between video quality and file size.
Pro Tips for Timelapse Editing
Want a cool zoom or pan effect in your timelapse? Use keyframes in your editing software! It’s like adding magic to your video.
Shoot in RAW: If your camera supports it, shoot timelapse sequences in RAW format. It’s like having a secret superpower in post-production.
Plan it out: The editing process is always easier when you have great raw footage. When you’re taking your timelapse, make sure your camera is steady, the time between shots is right, and there is enough light.