Top Timelapse Rigs and Accessories of 2018
Image Credit: MarioGuti via iStock
Another year is almost in the books, so it's time to take a look back on what you accomplished this year as a photographer.
One of my goals for 2018 was to shoot more - a lot more - and I managed to do so despite having a very, very busy year at PhotographyTalk.
I'm already planning my goals for next year, and one of my top priorities is to take more time for timelapse work.
I love a good timelapse (who doesn't?!), and I'm determined to use beauty that surrounds me in the Los Angeles area as fodder for some awesome timelapses.
If you're ready to venture into the world of timelapse photography, you'll need the rigs to do it. This list offers an overview of some of the best timelapse rigs and accessories of the year.
MOVO Pro 49" Motorized Slider System
The great thing (well, one of the great things…) about the Movo Pro 49” Motorized Slider is that you can use it to create epic timelapses as well as shoot live video. Stop-motion video is also an option!
The wireless, adjustable slider offers precision adjustments that give you pinpoint control over everything from the motor speed and focus time to the exposure and timer interval, just to name a few.
Adding to the versatility of this rig are the easy-to-adjust legs so you can get the precise positioning you need whether shooting indoors or out. On top of all that, the Movo Pro is universal and has compatibility with most DSLRs and camcorders.
This slider is made of lightweight, yet strong aluminum alloy. With a total length of 49-inches (31.5-inches of operational length), you have tons of leeway for getting beautifully long sliding shots.
And with a motor that has an adjustable speed from 0.7mm/s to 94mm/s, you can perfect the look of your videos by dialing in just the right speed for the shot.
As if all that isn’t awesome enough, consider this - the Movo Pro 49 is under $500. Compared to other rigs of this quality and versatility, that’s a significant bargain!
Whether you’re just starting out in timelapse video or you’re a seasoned pro, this slider will help you get the job done right without breaking the bank.
Learn more about the Movo Pro 49” Motorized Slider
Syrp Genie II Linear & Genie II Pan Tilt
What seems to keep some people away from venturing into the world of timelapse photography is the misconception that it involves too much gear and too much big, bulky gear at that.
But Syrp has completely changed that with the new Syrp Genie II Linear and Genie II Pan Tilt.
The Genie II Linear is incredibly portable and gives you the option to add motion control to your timelapse and films without lugging around a big, heavy piece of kit.
It can attach to any slider on the market and even cable cam systems up to 328’ in length, so you can quickly and easily upgrade your ability to capture gorgeous timelapses and real-time video.
Additionally, the Genie II Linear is loaded up with features for key-framing, shooting interviews, b-roll and timelapse with future available features including live view, and camera control for ramping exposure, just to name a few. It’s wirelessly controllable as well, via an iOS or Android device.
Meanwhile, the Genie II Pan Tilt gives you ultra portable camera motion control that you can carry in your backpack.
You can use it with a tripod for ultra-precise pan and tilt motion control, or if you want three-axis, use it in conjunction with the Genie II Linear for the most powerful 3-axis device on the market.
Like the Genie II Linear, the Pan Tilt offers tons of functionality, including timelapse and real-time video capabilities, key-framing, and much more. With mutli-row Panorama coming soon via a software update you’ll be able to capture high resolution ‘gigapixel’ images and shoot Panoramas all controlled from the app itself. It also has a built-in screen so you don’t have to use the app if you don’t need it and you want to pack light, not to mention a built in joystick for quick setup and re-positioning from the device itself.
In other words, these motion control devices are small, lightweight, packed with features, and will give you the ability to step your timelapse video game up a notch (well, several notches, actually…). They truly are unparalleled when it comes to motion control!
Learn more about the Syrp Genie II Linear and Syrp Genie II Pan Tilt
Dynamic Perception Stage Zero Motion Control Timelapse Dolly
This six-foot-long timelapse dolly has everything you need to start creating motion-controlled timelapse videos.
The kit includes an NMX Digital Motion Controller that is operable via a free iOS or Android app. A lightweight camera trigger and motion control device are also included.
The rail system is constructed of black anodized metal for long-term durability. Custom rail lengths are available as well.
The biggest claim to fame for this Dynamic Perception rig is its ability to stand up to use and abuse. You can run it through mud, dirt, and grime, and it'll keep on going!
The ease of use of this thing sets it apart as well - just open the box, attach the dolly to the rail, and you're ready to rock!
Learn more about the Dynamic Perception Stage Zero Motion Control Timelapse Dolly
Rhino Camera Gear Timelapse Slider Bundle
This timelapse bundle by Rhino has all the accessories you ned to start creating dynamic timelapse and real-time videos today.
Included is a 42-inch Rhino EVO carbon slider that supports up to seven pounds of gear. Also included is the Rhino Motion and Rhino Arc Motion Control Systems, which gives you the power to add motorized sliding motion to your timelapses.
The Rhino Motion Control Unit has a wheel that gives you the power to react to live performances, or you can program a slide with specific in and out points, travel time, looping, and ramping.
The Rhino Arc Motion Control Unit mounts directly onto the slider carriage and allows you to incorporate motorized panning motion to linear slides.
The rail system has an interchangeable design, which allows you to change out the included 42-inch rails for optional 24-inch rails when compactness is of the essence.
In other words, Rhino has thought of everything to get you started in timelapse photography!
Learn more about the Rhino Camera Gear Timelapse Slider Bundle
MIOPS Mobile Remote Programmable Trigger
Since timelapse videos take a while to create, having the ability to control your camera via your smartphone is a handy solution. With the MIOPS Mobile Remote Programmable Trigger, you can do jus tthat.
The device connects to the shutter release port on your camera and communicates with your phone using Bluetooth.
The refined user interface of the MIOPS Mobile App makes it incredibly easy to use, even for beginners that have little or no timelapse experience.
What's so great about this remote is that it allows you to combine multiple features - create timelapses, long exposures, or HDR timelapses. You can do bulb ramping as well.
The remote gives you the power to trigger the shutter when it senses movement, vibration, or even sound, too, making it ultra easy to use.
If you need a camera remote and want one that offers tons of functionality, this is it!
Learn more about the MIOPS Mobile Remote Programmable Trigger