Crystallizing Time: Lessons from Crystal Timelapse Photography

Introduction: A New Subject for Timelapse

While most timelapse creators focus on dynamic environments like cities, clouds, or construction sites, French artist Thomas Blanchard has taken a radically different approach. In his recent project Crystals, Blanchard turned his attention to chemical reactions—specifically, how crystals form over time.

The result is a stunning example of how micro-scale processes can become compelling timelapse subjects. But beyond the visuals, his process holds valuable lessons for anyone working in the field.

The Setup: Capturing Crystal Growth

Blanchard’s workflow for crystal timelapse photography starts with a simple—but highly controlled—experiment. He mixes potassium phosphate with water and pigments, then allows the mixture to sit in petri dishes or shallow trays. Over the course of hours, days, or even weeks, the solution crystallizes, forming organic, vein-like structures.

To document this, he uses:

• Canon R5 or Canon 5DS R cameras

• A Canon 100mm macro lens

• A RED Helium 8K camera for real-time footage

• Controlled indoor lighting

• A fixed tripod setup and intervalometer

He captures one image every minute, 24/7, for weeks. A single sequence can require 150,000+ photos.

Why Crystal Timelapse Photography Works So Well

What makes this process well-suited for timelapse is the extremely slow and consistent rate of change. Crystal growth doesn’t happen in real-time, but over hours or days. A standard video would miss these subtle transformations. A timelapse, however, brings them to life with clarity and rhythm.

For timelapse enthusiasts, this is a reminder that good subjects aren’t always big or fast. Processes like rusting, melting, growing, or chemical reactions can yield unique visual results—especially when captured under macro conditions.

Controlled Environment, Predictable Results

Unlike outdoor timelapse subjects, crystal growth happens in a controlled environment. There’s no weather, no changing light, and minimal camera drift. This makes post-processing easier:

• No stabilization needed

• Consistent exposure settings

• Easy background masking for compositing or color grading

It’s an ideal setup for anyone looking to practice macro timelapse without the unpredictability of nature.

The Role of Experimentation

One key takeaway from Blanchard’s process is his use of experimentation. He doesn’t follow a strict formula—each mix of materials yields slightly different results. Sometimes the crystals grow quickly. Other times, they form unusual patterns or interact with pigments in unexpected ways.

This experimental mindset is valuable for any timelapser. Not all sequences will work perfectly. But trying new subjects, setups, and techniques often leads to discoveries you can’t plan for.

Production & Post-Processing

Once Blanchard completes a shoot, the post-production process follows familiar timelapse steps:

• Image sequence assembly (using software like After Effects or DaVinci Resolve)

• Color correction and motion effects

• Slow, meditative pacing to match the organic visuals

What sets his work apart is his ability to match the tempo of the subject. Instead of fast cuts or flashy transitions, he leans into the calm, slow rhythm of crystal growth, which enhances the immersive effect.

Conclusion: What You Can Try

If you're interested in applying similar techniques, here are a few starting points:

• Subject: Try salt or sugar crystallization, ink dispersal in water, or frost forming on glass.

• Tools: Any DSLR or mirrorless camera with a macro lens will work.

• Interval: Start with 1 photo every 30–60 seconds.

• Environment: Use indoor lighting and minimize airflow or vibration.

Blanchard’s work shows that compelling timelapse doesn’t require exotic landscapes—it just requires curiosity, control, and consistency.