Time-lapse photography is becoming more accessible. What was once an involved process requiring high-end cameras is now being automated in smartphones, action cams, and even point-and-shoots. If this type of photography excites you, and you want to take it to the next level, you may want to check out Brinno’s new TLC200 Pro Time Lapse Camera. An upgrade to the TLC200, the Pro model adds the ability to shoot high-dynamic-range (HDR) videos and swap lenses.
While some smartphone apps and cameras capture JPEGS to create a time-lapse video, the portable TLC200 Pro Time records actual video in 720p (AVI format, so it’s ready for Web uploads). This means there is no photo stitching, making for a smoother video. (So, technically, it’s more of video camcorder than actual time-lapse photography camera). The ability to shoot in HDR should also improve the exposure. Where the camera excels is the ability to cut through different light settings such as low light and bright light. Four light settings include Daylight, Twilight, Night, and Moon; within those settings users can also adjust the exposure, saturation, contrast, sharpness and white balance. Record time-lapse videos is as easy as pushing the record button, but it’s best to set the camera on a tripod or steady surface; you could also attach it to a motorized accessory for creating time-lapse videos with panning.
The camera has some programmable options such as the ability to set time intervals, which can be spaced as far apart as one shot every 24 hours. Powered by four AA batteries, Brinno says the TLC200 Pro can last up to seven days of continuous filming. There’s also a new timer function that lets you set the camera’s wake and sleep times.
Each of the 1.3-megapixel sensor’s pixels has a size of 4.2 µm, which allows for low-light recording and sharper images, Brinno says. The camera has a 112-degree field-of-view angle to record a wider area and panoramic images. The camera comes with an f/2 aspherical lens, it can also accommodate other optional CS-mount lenses.
The camera looks big, but it weighs only 5 ounces. Its overall design is a little non-traditional – it resembles a webcam or security camera – but there is the requisite rear color display for framing and playback.
Brinno sells the TLC200 Pro as a package, which includes the camera, a 4GB SD card, four AA batteries, the kit lens, and accessories. The bundle retails for $230 and can be found on Amazon.
Check out these videos below that were shot with the TLC200 Pro, including a nighttime celestial video.
