Software & Computers

Setting your images to music and adding transitions has always been a popular way to share digital photos, and with the latest crop of software, the options are better and easier than ever. You have the options included with your operating system—iPhoto for Mac users and Photo Story for Windows users. Both can create basic slide shows from your images, along with music, which you can then burn to a CD or DVD, or share online.

#1

When you’re ready to go beyond the basics it’s time to look into some of the commercial products that are available. In the class I teach at BetterPhoto.com, I’ve selected ProShow Gold (www.photodex.com) for Windows users (#1) and FotoMagico (www.boinx.com) for the Macintosh platform (#2). Both of these programs offer a number of advanced features to let you take your shows to the next level. And, if you’re a pro, or you’re just aspiring to be a pro, they give you more protection for your images and output options that you’ll find useful when working with clients.

#2

A common topic with many of my students is how to best present their images. Whether you’re planning on sharing your shows online, burning a DVD for display on your computer or television, there are some easy guidelines to help you put your best image forward.