Share Your Memories with Photo Slideshows

With over 200 million users worldwide, Google Photos is the most popular cloud storage option out there, and it’s easy to see why. It’s free, simple to use, and always seems to be adding neat new features that really enhance your ability to organize and share your pictures in fun ways.

One of my favorite options is the ability to create a personalized slideshow video, including adding music and choosing transitions between photos. I can put together a nicely organized presentation of up to 50 photos—without having to dig out the old slide carousel from the attic to do it. Believe it or not, you can do it right from your smartphone!

Here’s how you can create slideshow videos on your Android smartphone (you can also do this using iPhone, though a few steps may vary).

• To get started, open your Google Photos app, then go to the menu in the top right corner (this appears as three vertical dots) and tap “movie.”  This will take you into your photo library and ask you to “Select items.”
• Select the photos or video clips you want to include (again, you can choose up to 50) by tapping them, and then tap the “Create” button at the upper right of your screen. Your video will take just a minute or two to process, after which you can add a title, select the color theme by tapping the “Special Effect” option, and even add music by tapping the “Song” option.
• Once you’ve finished editing, you can share the finished product by going back to the menu at top right, and choosing “Export”, to store the clip on your phone, or “Share,” to post it to Facebook or other social media.

Just like that, you’ve assembled a wonderful memento for friends and family to enjoy. I love to assemble short videos after vacations or special celebrations. It’s a great way to preserve and share these special moments in a unique and fun way, and best of all, with Google Photos, all it takes is a few clicks!