How to shoot sunset time-lapse with an iPhone ?

This techniques uses the built-in iPhone Camera app in Time-Lapse mode to shoot a sunset. iPhone’s default Time-Lapse feature is surprisingly good and super beginner-friendly.

Why the iPhone Time-Lapse Mode Works Well?

• Automatic speed adjustment: The iPhone calculates the frame interval based on how long you record — longer recordings = smoother results.

• No major technical setup required: No need to choose frame rates, intervals, or edit later — it’s all automatic.

• Good in low light: iPhones handle transitions from day to night quite nicely with built-in processing.

Start Shooting - The Set Up

1. Open the Camera app. Swipe over to “Time-Lapse” mode.

2. Set up your iPhone on a tripod. Stability is key.

3. Frame the shot.

   • Focus on the horizon.

   • Tap and hold to lock AE/AF (Auto Exposure / Auto Focus).

   • Swipe up/down to manually adjust the brightness (exposure).

4. Start recording. Hit the red button just before the sun starts to dip, and let it roll through the sunset and even a little after (for twilight colors into the blue hour).

5. Let it run. The longer you record, the smoother your time-lapse. iPhone automatically adjusts the interval based on recording duration, so you don’t need to tweak frame rates manually.

6. Keep your phone powered. Sunset time-lapses can take 20–60 minutes. If your battery is low, plug into a power bank.

   
   
   
   

   Sunset time-lapse shot on iPhone 16 Pro.

The built-in iPhone camera app's time-lapse mode only records at 1080p (Full HD). To capture time-lapses in 4K, you'll need to use a third-party app like Blackmagic Camera or ReeLapse. 

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Want to dive deeper into iPhone time-lapse photography ?

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