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All Night Timelapses

As the Milky Way season returns, day-to-night timelapses are becoming increasingly popular. We've received numerous questions about keeping cameras powered during these extended shoots. Over the years, the Arsenal team has experimented with various setups. Initially, we relied on large V-mount batteries, but improvements in battery technology have allowed us to significantly streamline our gear.

Reliable All-Night Power Setup

Here's our recommended gear to reliably power both your camera and Arsenal through an entire night.

Power Source

Neewer Mini V Mount Battery — While more expensive options exist, we've found these batteries to provide everything necessary. They feature:

  • A USB port to power Arsenal.
  • An 8-volt output ideal for powering your camera via a dummy battery.
  • USB charging capability while in use (more on this below).

Dummy Batteries

You might think dummy batteries are primarily used because Arsenal occupies the camera’s USB port. While that's partially true, dummy batteries are generally much more reliable than USB charging. Many cameras can't charge fast enough via USB to maintain power, especially as temperatures drop overnight. Dummy batteries, on the other hand, offer 100% reliability.

Important note for Nikon users: Third-party dummy batteries typically won’t work reliably for extended timelapses. Nikon cameras perform an internal check and shut down after approximately an hour if a non-Nikon dummy battery is detected. We've only encountered this issue with Nikon cameras; other brands haven't exhibited this behavior. On Sony cameras you'll get a message about the dummy battery being third party, but once you dismiss it, things should work.

We recommend dummy batteries with barrel jacks, which pair seamlessly with the Neewer battery's 8-volt output. Ensure you connect to the 8-volt port—not the 12-volt—to avoid damage.

Dummy batteries that connect via a D-Tap port are also available but can make cable extensions more challenging.

USB-C for Arsenal

To power Arsenal, this Anker 6-foot USB-C to USB-C cable will work fine (or any other charging cable that supports at least 15 watts). Remember, Arsenal can simultaneously charge through one USB-C port and connect to your camera through the other, making your setup clean and straightforward.

Lens/Dew Heaters

Lens or dew heaters are essential for preventing moisture and frost from accumulating on your lens during long, cold nights. The ones we currently use are no longer produced. When selecting your heater, look for models equipped with a thermistor (temperature sensor). These are more power-efficient, drawing less energy when temperatures are warmer. We prefer USB-powered heaters connected via a USB splitter, allowing multiple accessories to run off one power source.

Extending Power for Cold or Extra-Long Nights

On particularly cold or when doing full day-to-night and back-to-day timelapses, we use two Neewer batteries connected in sequence. Simply plug one battery into the other using a USB-A to USB-C cable. Verify the power flow on the battery's display to ensure correct discharging direction. While not the most efficient solution, this method significantly extends your shooting time and flexibility.

Get Out and Capture the Night Sky

Timelapse photography offers an incredible opportunity to witness and capture nature's slow yet stunning transitions—from vibrant sunsets to expansive starlit skies. Grab your gear, head outdoors, and experience the rewarding journey of capturing time unfold before your eyes.

Ready to feel inspired? Watch some of our favorite timelapses in action below and see firsthand what's possible.

Clear skies and happy shooting!