Do you have a folder full of vacation pictures, family photos, or project images that you want to enjoy in a slideshow? Windows 11 makes it easy to display photos in sequence — whether for personal enjoyment, a presentation, or simply reliving memories.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to slideshow photos in Windows 11, using built-in apps like Photos, File Explorer, and even third-party software.
Key Takeaways
Windows 11 has multiple ways to play a photo slideshow: Photos app, File Explorer, and third-party apps.
You can customize slideshow speed, shuffle order, and background settings.
Slideshows can be used for personal viewing, events, or screen savers.
Setting up a slideshow takes only a few clicks once you know where to look.
Why Use a Photo Slideshow in Windows 11?
A photo slideshow isn’t just for entertainment. It’s useful when you want to:
Relive memories (vacations, birthdays, family gatherings).
Display projects in classrooms or work meetings.
Showcase portfolios (artwork, photography, design).
Use as a digital photo frame on your PC or external monitor.
Think of it as turning your computer into a personal gallery — effortless and visually engaging.
Methods: How to Slideshow Photos in Windows 11
There are several ways to start a slideshow in Windows 11. Let’s go step by step.
Method 1: Slideshow with the Photos App
The Photos app is the default image viewer in Windows 11.
Steps:
Open the Start Menu → search for Photos → click to open.
Navigate to the folder or album containing your pictures.
Select the first image you want to start with.
Click the three-dot menu (… at the top).
Choose Slideshow.
👉 Your photos will now play automatically in fullscreen, one after the other.
Method 2: Slideshow from File Explorer
Sometimes you don’t want to open the Photos app — you just want a quick slideshow directly from your folder.
Steps:
Open File Explorer (Win + E).
Navigate to the folder containing your images.
Select any photo.
On the top ribbon, click Picture Tools → Manage → Slideshow.
💡 The slideshow will run in fullscreen with automatic transitions.
Method 3: Right-Click Menu in File Explorer
Another shortcut for instant slideshows:
Right-click on a photo inside a folder.
Select Open with → Photos.
Once open, click the Slideshow icon in the top-right corner.
Method 4: Use Photos App Albums for Organized Slideshows
If your pictures are scattered across multiple folders:
Open Photos app.
Click Albums in the left panel.
Create a New Album → add selected photos.
Open the album → click Slideshow.
👉 Great for themed collections like weddings, trips, or portfolios.
Method 5: Set a Photo Slideshow as Background
Windows 11 also lets you use slideshows as your desktop background wallpaper.
Steps:
Right-click your desktop → select Personalize.
Choose Background.
From the dropdown menu, select Slideshow.
Browse and select a folder of images.
Customize:
Change picture every 1 min – 1 day.
Shuffle pictures.
Choose fit (fill, fit, stretch).
This way, your wallpaper automatically changes like a slideshow.
Method 6: Use Photos as a Screensaver Slideshow
You can turn your idle screen into a photo gallery.
Steps:
Press Win + I to open Settings.
Go to Personalization → Lock screen.
Scroll down and select Screen saver settings.
Choose Photos from the drop-down.
Click Settings → select your photo folder.
Set time-out (e.g., start after 5 minutes).
👉 Now, when your PC is idle, it will display a slideshow of your chosen pictures.
Method 7: Using Third-Party Slideshow Software
If you want extra effects, transitions, or music, try third-party apps like:
IrfanView → lightweight and customizable slideshow tool.
FastStone Image Viewer → advanced slideshow features with transitions.
Google Photos Web App → online slideshow synced across devices.
Adobe Bridge → professional-level slideshow for photographers.
How to Customize a Photo Slideshow in Windows 11
Speed control → In Photos app, slides change automatically after a set time (not adjustable). Use third-party apps for precise control.
Shuffle photos → Available in desktop background slideshow settings.
Choose monitors → If you have multiple screens, you can set slideshows for all or specific displays.
Add music → Not natively supported in Windows 11, but apps like IrfanView let you add background music.
Quick Comparison of Slideshow Options
| Method | Best For | Customization | Music Support |
|---|---|---|---|
| Photos app | Quick fullscreen slideshows | Low | No |
| File Explorer | Instant folder slideshows | Low | No |
| Desktop Background | Continuous slideshow wallpaper | Medium | No |
| Screensaver | Auto slideshow when idle | Medium | No |
| Third-party apps | Advanced effects + music | High | Yes |
Troubleshooting Photo Slideshows in Windows 11
1. Slideshow Option Missing
Ensure you’re using the Photos app (default viewer).
If missing in File Explorer, update Windows.
2. Slideshow Not Changing Pictures
Check Settings → Personalization → Background.
Make sure folder has multiple images.
Verify Change picture every… isn’t set to “1 day.”
3. Low Image Quality
Use high-resolution pictures.
Set Fit option to “Fill” in background settings.
Conclusion
Now you know exactly how to slideshow photos in Windows 11. Whether you want a quick folder slideshow, a wallpaper that changes automatically, or a screensaver gallery, Windows 11 makes it simple.
For basic use, the Photos app and File Explorer are enough. But if you need more control — like adding music or custom transitions — third-party apps are the way to go.
So, pick your method, grab your favorite photo collection, and turn your PC into a digital frame today!
FAQs: Slideshow Photos in Windows 11
1. Can I add music to a Windows 11 slideshow?
Not with built-in tools. Use third-party apps like IrfanView or FastStone.
2. How do I change slideshow speed in Windows 11?
Only background slideshows allow speed changes (1 min–1 day). For fullscreen slideshows, use third-party apps.
3. Can I run a slideshow on dual monitors?
Yes. In background settings, you can choose to show slideshows across multiple displays.
4. Does Windows 11 support random photo order in slideshows?
Yes, by enabling Shuffle in slideshow background settings.
5. What’s the easiest way to start a slideshow of one folder?
Right-click any photo in File Explorer → Open with Photos → click Slideshow.