How to Make a YouTube Slideshow

The easiest way to create an awesome YouTube slideshow
YouTube Slideshow

Did you know that YouTube has over 2 billion users monthly? That makes it the perfect outlet to showcase your art, photo collection, or basically anything that deserves an audience. But what if your content is mostly comprised of static images? That shouldn’t be a problem, since you can easily turn them into an animated slideshow with pictures and music. Before 2017, users could create a YouTube slideshow right within the service itself, however this slideshow maker has since been retired.

Thankfully, there are multiple other slideshow makers out there. Usually, PowerPoint is the first slideshow program that comes to mind, and it’s no doubt a great tool for creating presentations. But you’ll need a different type of software if you want an eye-catching Youtube slideshow, rather than just moving pictures. We suggest SmartSHOW 3D, a powerful but easy-to-use slideshow maker. It’s jam-packed with tons of effects to make your YouTube video engaging and memorable. Want to know how to make a YouTube slideshow with catchy audio and juicy pictures using this software? Then here’s a blow-by-blow instruction to jump-start your YouTube career.

See what SmartSHOW 3D has to offer:
  • ✔ 250+ templates, themed and multi-purpose
  • ✔ 500+ effects and transitions
  • ✔ 200+ royalty-free music tracks
  • ✔ 100+ static and video backgrounds
  • ✔ 80+ captions styles
  • ✔ 30+ export formats

…and that’s not all this picture slideshow maker for PC has in store for you!

Making a slideshow for YouTube takes a bit more than just putting your pictures in a row. Let us show you how to create a slideshow that’s sure to impress this platform’s huge audience.

Step 1. Decide on the Slideshow Project Type

Conveniently, SmartSHOW 3D comes with two options of video projects. Need to create a slideshow for YouTube ASAP or you’re new to this whole video making thing? Go with the Slideshow in 5 Minutes option. There, you’ll get access to dozens of pre-made templates. You only have to fill them with your photos, and you’ll have a professionally looking slideshow in no time. If you have a certain concept in mind, then go with the New Project option, where you can create everything from scratch.

Pick the project type
Choose a “Slideshow in 5 Minutes” template or go the uncharted route with "New project"

Step 2. Add Your Best Pictures & Videos

Cull your photos or artwork and drag and drop them into the timeline. There is no limit to how many image and video files you can add to your slideshow project. However, don’t try to cram in everything at once, or else your video might become too long to be interesting. You can shuffle your pictures or put them in some order - all depending on your slideshow concept.

Add your pictures to the timeline
Fill the project timeline with your pictures and videos

Step 3. Choose the Right Soundtrack

Have you ever seen a thrilling but mute video on YouTube? Neither have we. So spice up your slideshow with some fitting music tunes. After all, SmartSHOW 3D comes with a huge library of 200+ tracks and sound effects. The tracks are divided into categories and genres so it will be easier for you to choose. You can also add music of your own choice. But do remember to comply with YouTube’s license regulations.

Set the mood with music
Set the mood of your slideshow video with a nice music jam

Step 4. Add Some Zest with Effects

Do you want your picture slideshow video to stand out from the crowd? Then jazz it up with effects! Set the flow and the pace of your video with an extensive library of transitions - gradient, 3D, mosaics, curtain swipes, etc. Use animation effects if you want your pictures to fade in, zoom out, pan left and right, rotate and flip. Then be sure to add a bit of slideshow magic with nature effects like falling snow, leaves, bubbels, or cherry blossoms.

Apply effects to your slideshow for YouTube
Apply flamboyant or subtle effects for your YouTube video
Wish to make your music slideshow so stunning that even a seasoned YouTube audience would gasp in awe? Piece of cake! Just learn how to create a slideshow with special effects and you'll be all set to make a viral Youtube video.

Step 5. Create Your YouTube Slideshow

Your video project is now complete, and it’s time to render it. Luckily, SmartSHOW 3D cuts the middle man, which means you don’t have to make a video only to later convert it into the right format. This audio slideshow maker allows you to save your slideshow as a video for YouTube in any resolution you need.

Save your project for Internet
Save your picture slideshow as a "Video for Internet"

There, now you have a thrilling slideshow with music and pictures done in no time! That wasn’t that hard, was it? All it took was a bit of inspiration, dedication, a clear concept, and an efficient slideshow maker, of course. Ready to take YouTube by storm? Download SmartSHOW 3D’s free trial to make a video that will amaze everyone.

Windows For Windows 11, 10, 8, 7

Looking for some more YouTube slideshow tricks? Find out how to create a karaoke-style video in the guide below:

YouTube slideshow
 

Keep in mind that it’s not all you can accomplish with SmartSHOW 3D’s capabilities. So don’t hesitate and get started with this software to make amazing content. If for some reason SmartSHOW 3D doesn’t feel like the solution you have been looking for, check out a detailed review of the best video editors for YouTube to explore more options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I create a slideshow directly on YouTube itself?

Unfortunately, no. YouTube retired its built-in tool in 2017, but don't worry! You can easily create impressive slideshows with a third-party program like SmartSHOW 3D.

What are the best YouTube slideshow makers?

Here are some slideshow tools that can get behind:

  • SmartSHOW 3D
  • Aiseesoft Slideshow Creator
  • iMovie
  • Adobe Premiere Pro
  • Magix PhotoStory

Get started with an easy-to-use slideshow editor now

How to pick a YouTube slideshow creator?

You have to consider your budget, hardware power, and the complexity of the idea you have in mind, and then try out different apps. You may also find out what slideshow tools other creators use.

Try a versatile and easy YouTube slideshow maker

How long is enough for a YouTube photo slideshow?

That depends on the purpose of your slideshow video. If you want to make a montage for fun or meme compilation, use around 25 images shown over an average 3-4 minute song. If your goal is to make something informative, then it’s better to have fewer slides with more data and screen time.

Get more useful slideshow recommendations here

How to make a slideshow video for YouTube more engaging?

To make your slideshow more than a series of images, you can add music, stylish transitions and effects, titles, stickers, and other embellishments.

Follow a complete step-by-step guide

How do I upload a slideshow to YouTube?

You have two options. You can use slideshow software with direct YouTube integration to seamlessly upload after editing. Alternatively, save the video you have created on your device and then upload it manually via YouTube's Create menu.

Why is my YouTube video receiving copyright claims for music?

You likely used a copyrighted soundtrack. When you add music to your YouTube slideshow, it is important to follow copyright laws to avoid legal complications. Here are the types of music you can legally use:

  1. Royalty-free audio. These are the tracks that have been specifically cleared for use in videos without any additional licensing fees.
  2. Music under a Creative Commons license. It means that some artists allow you to use their music free of charge as long as you give them credit.
  3. Licensed music. You can buy licenses from artists or music libraries to legally use their copyrighted music in your videos.
  4. Your own compositions. Because you own the rights to your original music, you can use it freely in your videos.

Now you know how to make a slideshow for Youtube, it’s time to turn your media into a visually captivating and technically perfect video. SmartSHOW 3D will be your reliable guide and assistant all the way through. Now it’s time to dethrone those cat videos once and for all!

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Windows For Windows 11, 10, 8, 7