Decide which story you are telling
A slideshow shown during a reception might tell the story of the couple before the wedding. A video shared afterward can tell the story of the day itself. Keep that distinction clear when collecting photos so the final sequence has a purpose.
An outline for the day itself
- Before: preparations, anticipation, and people arriving.
- Together: the ceremony and one or two important reactions.
- Between moments: portraits, conversations, and small details.
- Celebrating: dinner, speeches, dancing, and a few unexpected frames.
- Afterglow: a quiet final portrait or everyone together.
Make space for both people and their families
Look at whose faces appear repeatedly and whose are missing. If you are including childhood pictures, balance them thoughtfully without turning the slideshow into a long biography. Ask the couple to review anything that might be sensitive or embarrassing.
Keep a reception slideshow focused
A three-minute draft with 34 photos at five seconds each and ten seconds of titles is a useful place to start. Allow more time for group photos and captions. Confirm the actual screen format and playback setup with the venue, and test the exported file beforehand.
Finish with a feeling
End on a photograph that feels complete, rather than whichever file happens to be last. Keep text brief and make sure it is legible from the back of the room. Use music you have permission to use, and check permissions with your photographer before distributing their work. SkyAlbum currently offers planning tools and outlines, not wedding video export.
Arrange a contact sheet, download a story outline, or explore the journal for a little more inspiration.