Intervalometerator review
A technical, self-hosted DSLR scheduler for solar-powered, unattended time-lapse rigs.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Intervalometerator is an open-source time-lapse controller built around an Arduino Pro Mini and Raspberry Pi Zero W. Its browser interface manages compatible DSLR cameras through gPhoto/python-gphoto2, letting users schedule captures by weekday, time span and interval. It is aimed at solo operators and small teams who want detailed camera control and are comfortable assembling electronics and configuring Raspberry Pi hardware.
The project combines a free, open-source software model with a hardware-centered setup. The listed component costs relate to building the device rather than software license pricing. Once assembled, the browser interface supports white balance, ISO, aperture, shutter speed and image format, while test shots help with focus and camera alignment. That arrangement gives builders control over the capture workflow, but it is not a ready-to-run appliance; anyone seeking a managed installation should look elsewhere.
For remote deployments, Intervalometerator covers intervals from 3 seconds to 60 minutes, copies images from the camera and can upload them through FTP, SFTP, Dropbox or rsync. Battery and solar support suit off-grid installations, while retained settings and automatic resumption after power loss help maintain long-running schedules. The trade-off is a narrow, self-hosted focus: camera compatibility depends on the supported DSLR and gPhoto stack, and support is delivered through documentation. Choose it for customizable, unattended DSLR rigs; consider an alternative for plug-and-play operation, a managed service or a broader camera ecosystem.
Intervalometerator pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Detailed browser scheduling for weekday, time-span and interval plans
- 3-second–60-minute intervals with exposure and image-format controls
- FTP, SFTP, Dropbox and rsync uploads plus solar operation support
- Where it doesn't
- Requires assembling and configuring Arduino and Raspberry Pi hardware
- Camera control depends on compatible DSLRs supported by gPhoto/python-gphoto2
- Self-hosted deployment and documentation-only support favor technical users
Intervalometerator fact sheet, pricing and score →
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