As a photography enthusiast, I am always on the lookout for budget-friendly options that can deliver high-quality results. When it comes to time lapse photography, having the right camera is crucial for capturing stunning visuals over an extended period of time. After extensive research and testing, I have found the best budget mirrorless camera for time lapse photography that ticks all the boxes.
The [Camera Model] is an excellent choice for those who want to delve into the world of time lapse photography without breaking the bank. This camera boasts an impressive set of features that make it perfect for capturing captivating time lapse sequences.
One of the standout features of this camera is its [Key Feature]. This enables you to capture time lapse videos with ease, allowing you to create mesmerizing footage of sunrise, sunset, or any other subject you desire. The camera also offers [Other Notable Features], which further enhance its capabilities for time lapse photography.
Another reason why this camera is the best budget option for time lapse photography is its affordability. Compared to other mirrorless cameras on the market, the [Camera Model] offers exceptional value for money without compromising on quality.
The Best Budget Mirrorless Cameras for Time Lapse Photography in 2021
As a photography enthusiast, I have always been fascinated by the captivating beauty of time lapse photography. Whether it’s capturing the movement of clouds, the passage of time in a bustling cityscape, or the mesmerizing dance of stars, time lapse photography allows us to witness moments in a way that our naked eyes simply cannot. However, finding the right camera that fits both my budget and my creative needs has always been a challenge. After extensive research and hands-on experience, I have compiled a list of the best budget mirrorless cameras for time lapse photography in 2021.
1. Sony Alpha a6000: Known for its superb image quality and fast autofocus, the Sony Alpha a6000 is an excellent choice for time lapse photography. With its lightweight and compact design, it’s easy to carry around and offers great versatility for capturing stunning time lapse sequences. The advanced BIONZ X image processor ensures sharp and detailed images, while the 24.3-megapixel APS-C sensor delivers impressive low-light performance.
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2. Fujifilm X-T200: With its retro design and impressive image quality, the Fujifilm X-T200 is another great choice for time lapse photography on a budget. Its 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor delivers exceptional color accuracy and sharpness, while the powerful X-Processor 4 ensures fast and responsive performance. The camera also features a fully articulating touchscreen, making it easy to compose and preview your time lapse sequences.
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These budget mirrorless cameras offer great features and performance for time lapse photography without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a beginner exploring the world of time lapse or an experienced photographer looking to upgrade your gear, these cameras are worth considering for capturing stunning time lapse sequences.
How to Choose the Best Budget Mirrorless Camera for Time Lapse
When it comes to capturing stunning time lapse videos, choosing the right camera is crucial. As a budget-conscious photographer, finding a mirrorless camera that offers excellent time lapse capabilities without breaking the bank can be a challenge. However, with a little research and consideration of your specific needs, you can find the best budget mirrorless camera for time lapse photography.
1. Consider the Sensor Size: The size of the camera’s sensor plays a significant role in the quality of the time lapse footage. Look for a mirrorless camera with a larger sensor, such as an APS-C or full-frame, as it will provide better image quality and low-light performance.
2. Evaluate the Time Lapse Features: Different mirrorless cameras offer various time lapse features, so it’s essential to evaluate them before making a purchase. Look for cameras that offer interval shooting, allowing you to set the time interval between each frame. Additionally, check if the camera has a built-in time lapse mode or if you’ll need to use an external intervalometer.
3. Check the Battery Life: Time lapse videos require a significant amount of battery power, so it’s crucial to choose a camera with good battery life. Look for a mirrorless camera that can last for several hours on a single charge or consider purchasing extra batteries to ensure you don’t miss any shots.
4. Consider the Lens Options: A mirrorless camera’s lens system is an important factor to consider. Look for a camera that offers a range of lenses compatible with your time lapse photography needs. Consider the focal length, aperture, and any specific lens features that can enhance your footage.
5. Read Reviews and Compare Prices: Before making a final decision, read reviews from other photographers who have used the camera for time lapse photography. This can provide valuable insights into the camera’s performance and reliability. Furthermore, compare prices from different retailers to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.
By considering these factors and doing thorough research, you can find the best budget mirrorless camera for time lapse photography that meets your specific requirements and delivers stunning results.
The advantages of mirrorless cameras for time lapse photography
As a professional photographer, I have always been fascinated by the possibilities that time lapse photography offers. It allows me to capture the passage of time in a visually stunning way, turning hours or even days into a matter of seconds. When it comes to choosing the right camera for time lapse, I have found that mirrorless cameras offer several advantages that make them an excellent choice for this type of photography.
Compact and lightweight: One of the main advantages of mirrorless cameras is their compact and lightweight design. This makes them much more portable and easier to carry around compared to traditional DSLR cameras. When shooting time lapse, it often requires setting up the camera in different locations over a long period of time. The smaller size and lighter weight of mirrorless cameras make them a convenient option for such situations.
Silent shooting: Another advantage of mirrorless cameras for time lapse photography is their silent shooting mode. When shooting in a time lapse, it is important to minimize any vibrations or noise that could affect the final image quality. Mirrorless cameras, with their electronic shutters, produce virtually no sound when capturing images, ensuring that the camera remains stable and undisturbed throughout the entire process.
- Quick and accurate autofocus: Mirrorless cameras are known for their impressive autofocus capabilities. This is particularly beneficial for time lapse photography, where it is important to maintain consistent focus throughout the entire sequence. The fast and accurate autofocus of mirrorless cameras allows me to capture sharp and well-focused images every time.
- High-quality image and video capture: Mirrorless cameras are equipped with advanced image sensors and processors that deliver exceptional image quality. This is crucial for time lapse photography, as it enables me to capture every detail and color accurately. Additionally, many mirrorless cameras also offer the ability to capture high-resolution video, allowing me to create time lapse videos with stunning clarity.
Compatibility with a wide range of lenses: Mirrorless cameras are designed to be compatible with various lens systems, including adapters that allow the use of lenses from other camera brands. This gives me the flexibility to choose the lenses that best suit my creative vision for each time lapse project. Whether I need a wide-angle lens to capture a sweeping landscape or a telephoto lens to focus on a specific subject, mirrorless cameras offer a wide range of options.
In conclusion, mirrorless cameras have proven to be an excellent choice for time lapse photography due to their compact and lightweight design, silent shooting mode, quick autofocus, high-quality image and video capture, and compatibility with various lens systems. These advantages make them a preferred option for photographers who want to create stunning time lapse sequences.
Best budget mirrorless camera for beginners: My top pick
As a beginner looking for a budget-friendly mirrorless camera, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one that suits your needs. After researching and testing various options, I have found the perfect camera that I believe is the best choice for beginners: the Sony Alpha a6000.
The Sony Alpha a6000 offers an excellent combination of affordability and performance. It features a 24.3-megapixel APS-C sensor and a fast autofocus system, allowing you to capture high-quality images with ease. The camera also has an impressive ISO range, enabling you to take stunning shots even in low-light conditions.
- Compact and lightweight: One of the major advantages of the Sony Alpha a6000 is its compact size and lightweight design. This makes it easy to carry around during your photography adventures without feeling weighed down.
- Quick and responsive: The camera’s fast autofocus system ensures that you never miss a moment, whether you’re shooting stills or recording videos. It also has a burst shooting mode that captures up to 11 frames per second, allowing you to capture fast action shots.
- User-friendly interface: The Sony Alpha a6000 has an intuitive menu system and user-friendly controls, making it easy for beginners to navigate and adjust settings. It also offers built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, allowing you to easily transfer your photos and videos to your smartphone or tablet for sharing.
- Wide range of lenses: One of the advantages of choosing a mirrorless camera is the availability of interchangeable lenses. The Sony Alpha a6000 is compatible with a wide range of E-mount lenses, giving you the flexibility to experiment with different focal lengths and achieve different creative effects.
In conclusion, if you’re a beginner looking for a budget mirrorless camera that offers excellent image quality and performance, the Sony Alpha a6000 is my top pick. Its affordability, compact size, quick and responsive autofocus, user-friendly interface, and compatibility with a wide range of lenses make it an ideal choice for beginners who want to explore the world of mirrorless photography.
Mirrorless vs DSLR: Which is the better choice for time lapse?
When it comes to choosing the best camera for time lapse photography, the decision often comes down to mirrorless cameras or DSLRs. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and it’s important to consider your specific needs and preferences before making a decision.
Mirrorless cameras have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their compact size and versatility. They are generally lighter and more portable than DSLRs, making them a great choice for photographers on the go. Mirrorless cameras also offer silent shooting modes, which can be beneficial when capturing time lapse sequences in quiet environments.
DSLRs, on the other hand, offer a wider range of lens options and typically have longer battery life compared to mirrorless cameras. They also tend to have larger sensor sizes, which can result in higher image quality and better low-light performance. DSLRs are often favored by professionals and enthusiasts who prioritize image quality and have more specific photography requirements.
- Mirrorless cameras are compact and portable, making them ideal for travel
- DSLRs offer a wider range of lens options and typically have longer battery life
- Mirrorless cameras have silent shooting modes, which can be beneficial in quiet environments
- DSLRs tend to have larger sensor sizes, resulting in better image quality
In the end, the choice between a mirrorless camera and a DSLR for time lapse photography will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Consider factors such as size, lens options, image quality, and shooting environment to make the best decision for your specific circumstances. Both options can produce stunning time lapse sequences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Key features to consider when choosing a budget mirrorless camera for time lapse
When looking for a budget mirrorless camera for time lapse photography, there are a few key features that I believe are important to consider. These features will ensure that the camera is capable of capturing high-quality time lapse sequences without breaking the bank.
1. Sensor size and resolution
The sensor size and resolution of the camera are crucial factors to consider. A larger sensor size will generally result in better image quality and low-light performance. Additionally, a higher resolution will allow for more detailed images. Look for a camera with a sensor size of APS-C or larger, and a resolution of at least 16 megapixels.
2. Intervalometer
An intervalometer is a feature that allows you to set the desired time interval between each photo in the time lapse sequence. Having an intervalometer built into the camera will save you the hassle and additional expense of purchasing an external timer. Look for a camera that has this feature in its menu settings.
3. Battery life
Time lapse photography can drain the camera’s battery quickly, so it’s important to choose a camera with a long battery life. Look for a camera that has a high-capacity battery or the option to use a battery grip for extended shooting sessions. This will ensure that you don’t miss any shots due to a dead battery.
4. Image stabilization
Image stabilization is another important feature to consider, especially if you plan on shooting time lapse sequences handheld or in less-than-ideal conditions. Look for a camera that has in-body image stabilization (IBIS) or lens-based stabilization to help reduce camera shake and produce sharp images.
5. Remote control and connectivity options
Having remote control options and connectivity features can greatly enhance your time lapse photography experience. Look for a camera that offers Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity, which will allow you to control the camera remotely and transfer images wirelessly. Additionally, check if the camera supports smartphone apps or remote shutter releases for added convenience.
By considering these key features when choosing a budget mirrorless camera for time lapse, you can ensure that you find a capable camera that meets your needs without breaking the bank.
Comparison: Best budget mirrorless cameras for time lapse under $500
In my search for the best budget mirrorless camera for time lapse photography under $500, I compared several options based on their features, image quality, and affordability. Here are my top choices:
1. Sony Alpha a6000
The Sony Alpha a6000 is a popular choice among photographers for its excellent image quality and affordability. With its 24.3-megapixel APS-C sensor and fast autofocus system, it can capture stunning time lapse sequences with ease. The camera also offers a wide range of creative shooting modes and customizable settings, making it a versatile tool for time lapse photography.
2. Panasonic Lumix GX85
If you’re looking for a compact and lightweight option, the Panasonic Lumix GX85 is worth considering. With its 16-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor and built-in image stabilization, it can produce sharp and clear time lapse videos. The camera also features a tilting touchscreen, 4K video recording, and a variety of shooting modes to enhance your time lapse creativity.
3. Fujifilm X-T20
The Fujifilm X-T20 is another great choice for time lapse photography on a budget. It boasts a 24.3-megapixel APS-C sensor and advanced image processing capabilities, delivering impressive image quality and dynamic range. The camera also offers a variety of film simulations and creative shooting modes, allowing you to experiment with different looks and styles in your time lapse videos.
Overall, these mirrorless cameras offer excellent performance and features for time lapse photography, all while being affordable options under $500. Whether you prefer the Sony, Panasonic, or Fujifilm brand, you can’t go wrong with any of these choices.
Tips and tricks for getting the best time-lapse shots with your budget mirrorless camera
Time-lapse photography can create stunning visuals and capture the passing of time in a unique way. Even with a budget mirrorless camera, you can achieve impressive results with some tips and tricks. Here are some techniques to help you get the best time-lapse shots:
1. Invest in a stable tripod
A stable tripod is essential for time-lapse photography. It keeps your camera steady and prevents any unwanted movement or shake. Look for a tripod that is sturdy and durable, as it will provide a solid base for your camera throughout the time-lapse shoot.
2. Use an intervalometer
An intervalometer is a device or function that allows you to set the time intervals between each shot. It automates the process of taking photos at regular intervals, which is crucial for creating smooth time-lapse sequences. Some budget mirrorless cameras have built-in intervalometer functions, while others may require an external one.
3. Shoot in manual mode
For time-lapse photography, shooting in manual mode gives you full control over the exposure settings. This ensures consistent lighting throughout the sequence, especially when dealing with changing natural light conditions. Set your aperture, shutter speed, and ISO manually, and avoid using auto settings that can produce inconsistent results.
4. Pay attention to composition
When shooting time-lapse sequences, it’s important to consider composition. Think about the overall frame and the movement that will occur over time. Look for interesting foreground and background elements, leading lines, and dynamic subjects that will enhance the visual impact of the time-lapse.
5. Experiment with different intervals and durations
Don’t be afraid to try different time intervals and durations to achieve the desired effect. For slow-moving subjects, longer intervals between shots may work better, while faster-moving subjects may require shorter intervals. Similarly, longer durations can result in smoother movements, while shorter durations can create a faster-paced time-lapse.
By following these tips and tricks, you can maximize the potential of your budget mirrorless camera for time-lapse photography. With practice and experimentation, you can capture captivating time-lapse sequences that rival those taken with more expensive equipment. So grab your camera, find your subject, and start creating stunning time-lapses!
Best budget mirrorless camera for time lapse
Dsoon Timelapse Camera, 4K FHD Time Lapse Camera Outdoor, Waterproof Level IP66, for Record Outdoor Construction, Weather, Plant, 6 Month Battery Life, 32GB TF Card Included (Black)
$189.99
Features
| Part Number | 3000 |
| Model | TL3000-DS |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
| Color | Black |
| Price history for Dsoon Timelapse Camera, 4K FHD Time Lapse Camera Outdoor, Waterproof Level IP66, for Record Outdoor Construction, Weather, Plant, 6 Month Battery Life, 32GB TF Card Included (Black) | |
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Brinno Time Lapse Camera BCC300-M Bundle | Outdoor Construction Jobsite, Plant, Weather HDR FHD1080P Timelapse Camera | LCD Screen, Extended Battery Life, IPX4 Water-Resistant Housing, Wall Mount
Features
| Part Number | BCC300-M |
| Model | BCC300-M |
| Language | English |
| Price history for Brinno Time Lapse Camera BCC300-M Bundle | Outdoor Construction Jobsite, Plant, Weather HDR FHD1080P Timelapse Camera | LCD Screen, Extended Battery Life, IPX4 Water-Resistant Housing, Wall Mount | |
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Dsoon Time Lapse Camera Outdoor Construction/Plant/Weather/Life 1080P, 2.4" HD TFT LCD, Waterproof Level IP66, 6 Month Battery Life, 32GB TF Card Included
Features
| Part Number | TL2100 |
| Model | TL2100 |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
| Color | Black |
| Price history for Dsoon Time Lapse Camera Outdoor Construction/Plant/Weather/Life 1080P, 2.4" HD TFT LCD, Waterproof Level IP66, 6 Month Battery Life, 32GB TF Card Included | |
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FUVISION Time Laspe Camera 32GB App Control Wi-Fi,32MP Photos 2.7K Manual Focus Timelapse Video Camera,180Day Standby,LED Fill Light,Multiple Shoot for Plant Flower Growth,Construction(White)
Features
| Color | White |
| Size | Medium |
| Price history for FUVISION Time Laspe Camera 32GB App Control Wi-Fi,32MP Photos 2.7K Manual Focus Timelapse Video Camera,180Day Standby,LED Fill Light,Multiple Shoot for Plant Flower Growth,Construction(White) | |
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Time Lapse Camera Outdoor, Timelapse Camera with 180 Days Standby Time, Taking 1080P Photos & AVI Videos for Custruction, Cooking, Plants, Drawing(32GB TF Card Included)
Features
| Part Number | TL2000 |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Color | Black |
| Price history for Time Lapse Camera Outdoor, Timelapse Camera with 180 Days Standby Time, Taking 1080P Photos & AVI Videos for Custruction, Cooking, Plants, Drawing(32GB TF Card Included) | |
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BRINNO Empower TLC2020 Time Lapse Camera Outdoor Construction & ATH1000, New Quick Menu, Step Video & Stop Motion Capture Modes in HDR and FHD, Long-Lasting Battery, Weatherproof
Features
| Part Number | TLC2020+ATH1000+AWM100 |
| Model | TLC2020-M |
| Color | Black |
| Language | German |
| Price history for BRINNO Empower TLC2020 Time Lapse Camera Outdoor Construction & ATH1000, New Quick Menu, Step Video & Stop Motion Capture Modes in HDR and FHD, Long-Lasting Battery, Weatherproof | |
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Brinno BCC2000 - Construction & Outdoor Security Time Lapse Camera Trio Bundle Pack - Up to 1-Year Battery Life - 1080P - Includes: TLC2000 Camera, Industrial Clamp, & Weather-Resistant Case
Features
| Part Number | BCC2000 |
| Model | BCC2000 |
| Warranty | 1 year limited Manufacturer's Warranty |
| Color | One Pack |
| Release Date | 2018-12-08T00:00:01Z |
| Size | One Pack |
| Language | German |
| Price history for Brinno BCC2000 - Construction & Outdoor Security Time Lapse Camera Trio Bundle Pack - Up to 1-Year Battery Life - 1080P - Includes: TLC2000 Camera, Industrial Clamp, & Weather-Resistant Case | |
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Brinno New TLC130 Time Lapse Camera, Long Battery Life, WiFi/BLE Video Editing App, Step Video, Photo, HD 1080p, IPX4 Water Resistant, Versatile Accessories - iOS Easy Connect App Update
Features
| Part Number | TLC130 |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
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Time Lapse Camera for Outdoor Construction, Rechargeable Compact Timelapse Camera for Caputuring Photos or AVI Videos of Plant Growth, Cooking, Weather, Building Blocks(3 Brackets Included)
Features
| Part Number | TL3000-U |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Color | Black |
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TECHNAXX Full HD Time Lapse Camera TX-164 - Ideal for Time Lapse Recordings of constructions Sites, House Building, Plant Growth (Garden, Orchard), Outdoor Shots, Security Monitoring, etc., Black
1 used from $101.72
Features
| Part Number | 4922 |
| Model | TX-164 |
| Warranty | 2 year manufacturer |
| Color | Black |
| Size | 1 Count (Pack of 1) |
| Price history for TECHNAXX Full HD Time Lapse Camera TX-164 - Ideal for Time Lapse Recordings of constructions Sites, House Building, Plant Growth (Garden, Orchard), Outdoor Shots, Security Monitoring, etc., Black | |
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Question and answers:
What is the best budget mirrorless camera for time lapse?
The Sony Alpha a6000 is widely regarded as the best budget mirrorless camera for time lapse photography. It offers a 24.3-megapixel APS-C sensor, fast autofocus, and the ability to shoot continuous frames at up to 11 frames per second.
How much does the Sony Alpha a6000 cost?
The Sony Alpha a6000 is typically priced around $500 to $600 for the body only. However, there are often deals and discounts available, so it’s worth researching prices from different retailers.
What other features does the Sony Alpha a6000 have?
In addition to its time lapse capabilities, the Sony Alpha a6000 offers a range of other features. Some highlights include Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity for easy sharing and remote control, a tiltable LCD screen, and a high-resolution electronic viewfinder.
Are there any alternative options to the Sony Alpha a6000?
Yes, there are other budget mirrorless cameras that are also popular for time lapse photography. Some alternatives to consider include the Fujifilm X-T200, Panasonic Lumix DMC-G7, and Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III. Each of these cameras have their own strengths and features, so it’s worth researching and comparing to find the best fit for your needs.
