Development of a Low Cost Time-Lapse Recording Method for Observation of Extended Animal Activities, Construction Projects, and Field Operations Using a Digital Camera

摘要

Time-lapse photography can be helpful in the study of animal behavior, building improvements, and management practices. By condensing activity time from hours, or perhaps days, to minutes an observer may more easily notice trends, problems and/or solutions. However, time-lapse photography equipment can be expensive and not conducive to operation in remote agricultural locations. This paper describes a method developed to create time-lapse video using a relatively low-cost digital camera and readily available materials, equipment, and video editing software. This system was used to record dairy cow resting and feeding activity, a construction project, and packing of a horizontal silo in areas with and without AG power available. System limitations, possible improvements, and learned 'helpful hints' are also discussed.