Ultimate Guide to Creating Photo Slideshows in Windows 11

In the modern era, photos are more than just captured moments; they encapsulate cherished memories that we love to revisit. For Windows 11 users, creating photo slideshows offers a fantastic way to relive these moments, whether during family gatherings or as a dynamic decoration for your desktop or lock screen. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to the various methods you can use to create and enjoy photo slideshows in Windows 11.

Understanding Slideshows in Windows 11​

Windows 11 is designed to make it easy for users to view their photos in a slideshow format. The operating system offers several options for creating slideshows, encompassing different applications and settings. Here’s an overview of these methods:

1. Using the Windows 11 Photos App
2. Setting a Desktop Background Slideshow
3. Creating a Lock Screen Slideshow
4. Viewing Slideshows in Google Photos
5. Making a Video Slideshow with Clipchamp Each method comes with its unique features and steps, allowing users to choose the best option that fits their preferences.

   1. View Photos in a Slideshow Using the Windows 11 Photos App​

   The Photos app is often the most robust option for creating a dynamic slideshow. It allows users to curate specific images, adjust how they transition, and even add background music. Here’s how to create a slideshow using the Photos app:
   • Step 1: Open the Photos app by searching for it in the Start menu.
   • Step 2: Navigate to the folder containing the photos you wish to include. You can do this by clicking on the 'Folders' option visible on the left sidebar.
   • Step 3: To start a complete folder slideshow, simply click on the “Start slideshow” option in the menu bar at the top or press F5 on your keyboard.
   • Step 4: If you want to select specific photos, click the checkbox in the top right corner of each photo you want to include before starting the slideshow.
   • Step 5: Once the slideshow begins, you’ll see an option for 'Slideshow options,' which you can click to customize transitions, select music, and determine whether the slideshow loops once all images have been displayed. This method is not only intuitive but also allows for a more interactive experience, letting you pause, alter the volume, or quit the slideshow as needed.

     2. View a Photo Slideshow as a Desktop Background​

     Another engaging way to showcase your images is by setting them as a slideshow desktop background. This option allows you to keep your favorite photos visible at all times. To set up your slideshow background, follow these steps:
   • Step 1: Open the Settings app from the Start menu.
   • Step 2: Click on 'Personalization' from the left sidebar.
   • Step 3: Go to 'Background.'
   • Step 4: Next to 'Personalize your background,' select 'Slideshow' from the dropdown menu.
   • Step 5: Click the 'Browse' button to locate the folder containing your images and choose it.
   • Step 6: Adjust the 'Change picture every' setting to determine how frequently you want the images to cycle. Options range from every minute to once a day, with the default set to 30 minutes.
   • Step 7: You can also choose to shuffle the images and adjust how they fit the desktop. This method allows your favorite memories to brighten your workspace continuously but be mindful that frequent changes may affect performance on older machines.

     3. View Photos as a Lock Screen Slideshow​

     If you want your slideshows to greet you at login or while your PC is idle, setting up a lock screen slideshow is an excellent choice. Here’s how to do it:
   • Step 1: Launch the Settings app.
   • Step 2: Navigate to 'Personalization' and select 'Lock screen.'
   • Step 3: Open the dropdown menu next to 'Personalize your lock screen' and choose 'Slideshow.'
   • Step 4: Click on 'Browse' to select a folder containing photos to display.
   • Step 5: You can add multiple folders, but typically manage one at a time. You can also customize advanced settings for your lock screen slideshow, such as displaying the lock screen even when your PC is inactive, which mimics a screen saver. This will allow you to enjoy your favorite images whenever your device is not in active use.

     4. View Photos as a Slideshow in Google Photos​

     For users who save their images in cloud storage, Google Photos offers a convenient way to access and share your pictures through a slideshow. Here is how:
   • Step 1: Open Google Photos in your web browser.
   • Step 2: If you haven’t uploaded photos, click 'Upload' to select images from your computer.
   • Step 3: Once uploaded, select the photos you wish to include by clicking the checkmark in the top left corner of each.
   • Step 4: Click the '+' button and then select 'Album' or 'New album' to create a collection.
   • Step 5: After naming the album, click to confirm your changes.
   • Step 6: To start a slideshow, go to the three-dot menu in the top right of the album and pick 'Slideshow.' Google Photos’ slideshow function is particularly useful for sharing with friends and family, allowing you to easily pull up entire albums at once.

     5. Make a Video Slideshow with Clipchamp​

     For users looking to create a polished video presentation of their photos, the Clipchamp video editor provides an extensive range of tools. Follow these steps to create your video slideshow:
   • Step 1: Open Clipchamp either through your Start menu or as a browser application.
   • Step 2: Log in or create a new account.
   • Step 3: Click 'Create a new video.'
   • Step 4: Use 'Import media' to select the photos you'd like to include in the slideshow.
   • Step 5: Add images to the timeline by either clicking the '+' button or dragging them to arrange them in the desired order.
   • Step 6: To adjust the duration of each photo display, manipulate the edges of each image in the timeline.
   • Step 7: Add transitions between photos by clicking on the space between images.
   • Step 8: Enhance your slideshow by inserting background music and adding text when desired. Creating a video slideshow gives you the flexibility to share your creation with friends or on social media, encapsulating your memories in a dynamic format.

     Conclusion​

     Windows 11 provides several versatile options for users to view their beloved photos in engaging slideshow formats. Whether using the Photos app for a simple viewing experience, setting a desktop or lock screen slideshow for consistent visibility, accessing cloud-based photos, or creating a video montage, Windows 11 offers tools that cater to every need. Each method allows for a customizable experience, enhancing how we relive cherished moments while using our computers. By understanding and utilizing these features, you can transform how you share and experience your memories. Happy sliding! Source: XDA Developers - How to view photos in a slideshow in Windows 11 .