This post is based from another one user request. This time around the request was is there way better way of creating photo slides other than using Microsoft Office PowerPoint. The straight forward answer is Yes. Of course there are many alternative utilites for Windows XP to create slides shows.
The user requirements for the utility includes:
- Has to offer many effects
- Easy to use - our users are very intellectual people but when it comes to technology, well I must admit they’re not the sharpest tools in the shed.
- Can add music
- Can add narration
- Can add titles to each pictures
- Must be compatible with Windows XP (d’oh!)
- The application is cheap i.e. FREE
As I listened to the requirements I already knew what to recommend. That is MS Photo Story 3.
This free Microsoft utility fits the bill. After downloading and installing the application I showed the user the basic controls and operations of the application. The application was easy to use. It was just a matter of selecting the photos you wanted in the slideshow, select the effects, music etc. and in a matter of minutes we had a stunning slideshow. It only took the user one demonstration before excitement rushed in and wanted to take over the controls.
Here’s a quick step-by-step guide:
Step 1 - Launch MS Photo Story 3:
Step 2 - Click on the Import Pictures button:
Step 3 - From the File Browser, select the pictures you wish to include in the project:
Step 4 - From this dialogue box you can add titles for each photos and also select specific effects.
Step 5 - Add narration to your story:
Step 6 - Add music to your slideshow if you wish to:
Step 7 - Click on the Browse button to select the place to save the final product. From this dialogue box you can also select the output type and quality.
Step 8 - View the output file once the application has completed rendering the project:
Although such utilites are not part of our business applications and SOE, I’ve included the installs on a common share for other interested users.