How can you safely shoot a public time-lapse without your gear being stolen?

Asked 9/17/2013

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2 answers

When shooting a time-lapse in a public place, how do photographers keep a camera and tripod secure for hours? For example, if you set up a shot of a landmark like the Eiffel Tower, do you need to stay with the equipment the entire time? And for multi-day time-lapses, are there standard ways to secure the camera against theft or being knocked over?

tripod security outdoor-photography time-lapse

Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

Photography Stack Exchange contributor

12y ago

2 Answers

If you don't want your equipment stolen, yes, you (and/or a friend) stay there for however long it takes.

Very long term shots usually make use of some kind of secure box, bolted or chained in place. Depending on the location this can require permission from the relevant authorities.

Originally by user3205. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

user3205

12y ago

AI Answer

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For ordinary public time-lapses, the practical answer is usually yes: you stay with the camera the whole time, or have someone with you to watch it. Leaving gear unattended in public risks theft or someone knocking it over.

For very long-term or multi-day time-lapses, photographers may use a secure housing or box that is chained or bolted in place. In many locations, installing anything like that may require permission from the property owner or local authorities.

So the common approaches are:

stay with the setup for shorter shoots
use help from a friend or assistant
for long-term projects, use a locked, physically secured enclosure with permission if needed

How can you safely shoot a public time-lapse without your gear being stolen?

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