The need for speed

One of the most interesting aspects of film and photography is how it can be used to show a new perspective on the passage of time.

Through long exposure, slow motion video, timelapse and hyperlapse photography, it's possible to see things the human eye cannot.

Timelapse

Timelapse is a photography and video technique where frames are captured at set intervals over a period of time, then played back at normal speed—making slow processes (like sunsets, city traffic or plant growth) appear to happen rapidly.

It’s especially useful for showcasing change over time, such as construction projects, natural landscapes, or event setups. In social media and marketing, timelapse adds visual interest, compresses long activities into engaging short clips, and can highlight efficiency, creativity, or transformation in a captivating way.

Hyperlapse

Hyperlapse is a form of timelapse photography where the camera moves significantly between each shot, creating a dynamic sense of motion through space as well as time. Unlike traditional timelapse, which is usually captured from a fixed point, hyperlapse involves repositioning the camera—often by walking, using a slider, drone, or stabilizer.

Visually striking: Adds cinematic movement and energy to scenes.
Great for storytelling: Ideal for showcasing journeys, locations, or transitions in a powerful way.
Popular in social media and promos: Grabs attention with its dynamic flow—perfect for reels, brand videos, or travel content.

Slow motion

Slow motion is a video technique where footage is recorded at a high frame rate (e.g., 120 or 240 frames per second) and then played back at normal speed, making time appear to move more slowly. This reveals details that are usually too fast for the eye to catch—like a splash of water, an athlete’s movement, or a bursting balloon.

Dramatic effect: adds emotion, suspense, or emphasis to key moments.
Detail and clarity: highlights motion, texture, or reactions that would otherwise be missed.
Versatile across genres: used in product promos, sports, fashion, and cinematic storytelling to captivate viewers.

Long exposure

Long exposure photography is a technique where the camera's shutter is left open for longer than usual (typically longer than 1 second), allowing more light to reach the camera sensor and creating visual effects that show motion over time.

Captures iconic landmarks in an artistic or ethereal way
Highlights motion and energy (e.g., concerts, festivals, nightlife).
Removes moving people or cars from crowded urban scenes.

Light painting

Light painting (also called light writing) is a photographic technique where a camera with a long exposure captures the movement of a light source in a dark environment. By moving lights—like flashlights, LEDs, or sparklers—artists “paint” shapes, patterns, or words in the air, which the camera records as glowing trails.

Creative expression: enables unique, eye-catching visuals that stand out.
Brand storytelling: can highlight logos, messages, or products in an artistic way.
Event coverage: adds dynamic, magical effects to nightlife, concerts, or festivals.
Social media appeal: visually striking content that grabs attention and encourages sharing.

2nd curtain flash

2nd curtain flash is a flash photography technique where the flash fires at the end (just before the shutter closes) of a long exposure, rather than at the beginning (as with standard or 1st curtain flash).

This results in images where motion blur appears behind the subject, creating a natural sense of movement. It's especially effective when the subject is moving during the exposure.

Motion trails appear behind the subject, not in front
Subject appears sharp and well-lit, while background and moving elements are blurred
Makes the action appear fast and powerful
Captures people in motion on dance floors with a vibrant, energetic look.

Multi flash

Multi-flash photography (also known as stroboscopic flash) involves firing the flash multiple times during a single long exposure, capturing multiple instances of a moving subject within one frame.

This technique creates a layered, stop-motion-style effect where the subject appears several times in different positions, frozen by each flash burst.