We’ve asked our favorite videographer (she did all of our mentoring videos) to write up some tips and pointers for slideshows. We all know it’s a great way to build emotion for clients, but what is the best way to create these slideshows?
Shawna Toth from Small Wonder gives us some great tips:
Slideshows, montages, photo DVDs. Taking still images and turning them into a dynamic presentation. It is a great way to present edited photos to clients. There are a few things to consider before getting creative with your slideshow. The most important thing to keep in mind? Don’t get carried away with the graphics and transitions. The purpose of the photo slideshow is to showcase your images, not the capabilities of your editing software.
The Basics:
Make each image 5-8 seconds long.
Use 1-2 second dissolves almost all of the time.
Transitions: Just because they exist does not mean you should use them. The clock, blinds, the sawtooth…video editors refer to these as “cheesy wipes” for a reason. There can be a time and place for them, but generally, they take away from the images they are between.
Graphics: Again, not necessary, and probably do more harm than good. Unless there is information that must be conveyed to the client within the slideshow, stay away from words and graphic images on the screen.
Adding interest to your slideshow:
Add slight motion to the photos. A small amount in one direction will add to the slideshow without becoming distracting. If every image is panning and zooming, it can be too much. Movement on 2 out of 3 photos is more than enough.
Put 2 images side by side. This can work especially well for comparison purposes, if you have 2 portrait oriented photos that are similar but obviously different. ie: one is black and white, or the same pose but different facial expression.
Background colour can add to a slideshow. Go with black or white, and keep it simple. Texture, moving backgrounds and bright colours will make people look at the background, not the images.
Add a simple, sleek, small frame to each photo. Again, don’t go overboard with a thick, wood-grained frame. A thin white line over a black background will make the image stand out.
The purpose of your slideshow is to have your clients get a sense of the beautiful images you have created for them. Use the video format to enhance those images by keeping things simple, consistent and smooth.
So, when can you use those “cheesy” transitions and graphics? Next time someone asks you, as a favour, to take photos of their friend’s stagette, or make a montage of old photos for college graduation, go crazy! Or just send them to me…
Shawna Toth (Video Editor)
by Brandy
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