Popular gigapixel panorama tool can craft motion time lapses, too

A trip to Mars may be out of the question, but photographers can now use technology based on what NASA uses to shoot panoramas from the Mars Rover for their earth-bound DSLRs. The GigaPan Epic Pro V advances OmegaBrandess’ panning heads with new 360-degree video panning and motion time-lapse modes, using a sturdy design modeled after the imaging tech on the Mars Rover.

Like the company’s previous robotic camera mounts, the Epic Pro V can hold up to 10 pounds of gear. Two new modes, however, allow the head to use the full 360 range of motion continuously. The head can now combine both the 360-degree horizontal panning and 180-degree vertical panning together. The new mode allows the camera to move diagonally, with speed control, after the user selects the starting and ending points.

While the video recording must be started manually, the Gigapan Epic Pro V can shoot time lapses hands-free using a connected remote release shutter cord. The new motion time-lapse mode allows users to create a similar range of motion from the video options in time lapses, using a 360 horizontal range, a 180 vertical range, or diagonal movement. Unlike in the video mode, the Gigapan allows users to select how many photos to shoot and how often, so the entire time lapse can be easily controlled from the robotic head.

The latest version adds those two modes while retaining the Gigapan Epic Pro’s previous features. The robotic head is a popular option for creating large gigapixel panoramas, with the ability to adjust how much each shot overlaps and the included GigaPan Stitch software to simplify the process of putting hundreds or even thousands of images together for a zoomable, high resolution final product.

The latest version of the robotic head keeps the same $995 price point as its older sibling and is now available to ship.