Timelapse is an amazing way to showcase the progress of a 3D print in just a few seconds! 🎞️ Watching the object being built layer by layer at high speed is impressive, engaging, and useful for troubleshooting and promotion!
🎬 Why Make a Timelapse?
✅ Impressive Visuals – Turn hours of printing into seconds! 🔥
✅ Social Media / Marketing – Perfect for makers, YouTubers, and companies! 📣
✅ Educational & Analytical Tool – Identify errors & learn the process! 🔍
✅ Just for Fun – It’s cool to see objects appear like magic! ✨
🎥 Methods for Creating Timelapse
🔹 1. External Camera (DSLR, Action Cam, Webcam)
📷 What You Need:
- DSLR / Action Cam (GoPro) – High-quality footage!
- Tripod / Stable Mount – No camera movement!
- Video Editing Software (Premiere, DaVinci Resolve, ffmpeg)
📌 How It Works:
➡️ Set the camera to capture photos at intervals
➡️ After printing, stitch the photos into a video
✅ Pros: High resolution!
❌ Cons: Difficult to sync with the printer
🔹 2. Printer-Connected Software (OctoPrint, Klipper)
🎛 OctoPrint + OctoLapse (Raspberry Pi)
- The printer moves the nozzle out of frame 🎯
- A photo is taken after each layer 📸
- The result? A perfectly synchronized timelapse! 🔄
📌 How It Works:
➡️ Install OctoLapse Plugin
➡️ Connect a webcam
➡️ Set up the timing for snapshots
✅ Pros: Smooth, clean video!
❌ Cons: Slightly increases print time
🎛 Klipper / Mainsail Timelapse – Similar method using custom scripts
🔧 Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Timelapse (OctoLapse)
1️⃣ Install OctoPrint & OctoLapse (on Raspberry Pi or PC)
2️⃣ Connect a Webcam or Action Cam
3️⃣ OctoLapse Settings:
- Trigger per layer
- Park Position (so the nozzle isn’t in the shot)
4️⃣ Start the Print 🏁
5️⃣ Generate the Video 🎞️
🎯 Tips & Tricks for Stunning Results!
✨ Background & Scene – Clean and well-lit! 💡
✨ Stable Camera Setup – Use a tripod! 📷
✨ Sync with Layers – 1 photo per layer for smooth animation! ⏳
✨ Proper Nozzle Parking – Move it away from the object! 🛠
✨ Correct Frame Rate – 30fps = 300 photos for a 10-second video 🎞️
🏆 Best Equipment for Timelapse
📌 Webcam: Logitech C920 / C922 – Ideal for OctoLapse! 🎥
📌 Action Cam: GoPro Hero (with built-in time-lapse mode) 📸
📌 DSLR: Canon/Nikon with a trigger for pro-level results! 📷
📌 Post-processing Software: Adobe Premiere, DaVinci Resolve, ffmpeg 🎬
❓ Common Questions
🤔 Will this affect print quality?
No, as long as the nozzle is parked properly! ✅
🤔 Do I need an expensive camera?
Not really! Even a 1080p webcam works great! 🔥
🤔 Does it slow down printing?
Only a little! (A few extra seconds per layer) ⏳
🚀 Time to Create Your Own Timelapse!
Whether you want to impress your audience or analyze your prints, timelapse is the way to go! 📸🔥
👉 Try it today and upload your first epic timelapse video! 🚀