Amsterdam Timelapse with AI Transitions: Kirill Neiezhmakov’s Insights

Amsterdam has been filmed countless times, yet every new perspective reveals something unique. In “Amsterdam in Royal Motion,” filmmaker Kirill Neiezhmakov offers exactly that. His latest project captures the city’s energy through a blend of hyperlapse sequences and AI transitions.

We spoke with Kirill about his creative process, the challenges of working with limited time and unpredictable weather, and how tools like Pixverse are helping shape the future of timelapse filmmaking.

Interview: Capturing Amsterdam’s Rhythm Through Timelapse and AI with Kirill Neiezhmakov

What was your main creative goal with “Amsterdam in Royal Motion”?

I wanted to show the architectural beauty of Amsterdam while capturing the rhythm of the city. The canals often feel more alive than the roads. Boats, reflections, constant movement — that was the feeling I wanted to express. I aimed to show that motion through the pace of the film, using hyperlapse, transitions, and rhythm.

Amsterdam is full of iconic landmarks. How did you decide which locations and scenes to include?

Before arriving, I made a map and marked all the major spots. Once there, I adjusted things based on light, composition, and how a place felt in person. Some locations, like the Royal Palace, were under renovation, so I had to skip them. In the end, I shot nearly 60 sequences in just two and a half days. Normally, a film like this would take a week or more.

What part of the production was most challenging?

Every step had its challenges. Shooting was tricky because of the weather. If it had rained for two days straight, that would have been a problem, but I only lost half a day. Editing was about finding the right balance between pacing and the music structure. I was also a little worried whether I had enough footage variety. Creatively, I wanted to add something new and that’s where AI transitions came in.

Which scene is your personal favorite or the one you are most proud of?

Definitely the day-to-night hyperlapses. They are more difficult and take longer to shoot, but visually they are very rewarding. The gradual change in light, the city lights turning on and when it works, it feels magical.

If you could revisit the project, what would you do differently?

With more time, I would have worked on a stronger narrative and a more dynamic opening. I might also include some unusual locations that people do not expect. But with the time I had, I am satisfied with the result.

What motivated you to integrate AI transitions in this project?

I have used morphing transitions before and I enjoy how they blend architectural elements. This time, I wanted to try a new approach with AI creating smooth transformations between scenes. It was an experiment. The results were interesting, though I think the tools still need to improve before they can match the level of control I would like.

Which AI tools or techniques worked best for your project?

Pixverse gave me the best results. I also tested Dream Machine, but that did not deliver in terms of quality or cost. Pixverse was more reliable for the kind of morph transitions I had in mind.

Do you see AI more as a creative partner or as a technical assistant?

For me, AI is an extension of my creative toolbox. It helps me explore ideas and takes care of repetitive tasks. It is not about replacing the craft, but making space for more focus on storytelling and artistic direction.

How do you think AI will shape videography and timelapse filmmaking in the coming years?

AI will definitely play a role, especially as the tools become more refined. But I do not believe it will fully replace classic timelapse or hyperlapse work, especially where realism and image quality matter most. I am cautiously optimistic. If AI can handle boring tasks like stabilization or repetitive edits, that leaves more room for creativity.

Where do you draw the line between enhancing footage with AI and keeping real-world authenticity?

AI should support the creative vision without taking over reality. It is just another tool, like color grading or editing. The key is to use it intentionally. I believe in progress, but I also want to keep the truth of what we see. Especially in timelapse, where light and time are the real stars.

Closing Thoughts

At TimelapseRobot, we find it exciting to see how filmmakers like Kirill Neiezhmakov combine traditional skills with new technologies. His work on Amsterdam in Royal Motion shows how AI transitions can enrich a project without taking away from the authenticity of real scenes.

If you are planning your own long-term timelapse projects, TimelapseRobot is here to help. Our tools are made for photographers who want to stay organized and efficient while keeping full control over their creative process.

Keep following our blog for more behind-the-scenes interviews, product updates, and ideas from the world of timelapse photography.