TL;DR
- No downloads required – use built-in tools like PowerPoint online on Windows or Mac
- Add background music easily using the Insert → Audio → Play in Background steps
- Supports photo, video, and MP3 formats for smooth playback
- Works on PC, Mac, and even iPhone using native tools like the Photos app
- Export in MP4 format to share via email, Instagram, Facebook, or cloud
- Pro tip: Keep it short (under 7 minutes), pick music that fits your vibe, and preview before exporting
Sometimes the simplest ideas turn into the biggest headaches. You just want to put together a picture slideshow with a nice background track, but every app seems to come with hidden catches, sign-ups, ads, or watermarks that ruin the moment.
The truth is, you don’t actually need any extra apps at all. With tools already built into your computer, you can create a smooth slideshow and pair it with music in just a few steps.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through exactly how to make a slideshow of pictures on PowerPoint with music, quickly, easily, and without downloading a single app.
How to Make a Picture Slideshow With Music Step by Step Online?
As promised, the process is surprisingly straightforward, just a few clicks and you’ll have your photos lined up, music playing in the background, and a slideshow ready to go.
Want more flexible options like Canva, Animoto, etc, that let you directly add and customize music in your slideshow? Check out these alternatives.
Let’s get back to it: here’s how to add music to your PowerPoint slideshow step by step.
Step 1: Go to your PowerPoint account from your preferred browser. On your presentation’s home screen, go to the top menu bar and click on Insert.
Step 2: From the new bar that appears, select Audio.
Step 3: A window will open showing your device’s folders. Browse and select the music file you want, then click Open.
Step 4: The audio file is now inserted into your presentation. Select Play in Background so the music plays automatically while your slideshow runs.
Want your slideshow to feel more professional? See the top 5 PowerPoint plugins with AI and discover how AI can save hours of manual formatting.
How to Add Music to a Slideshow on Windows & Mac?
Want to skip the online tools and do it right from your PC? If you’re on Windows, you already have what you need. Just follow the steps below.
Step 1: Click on Insert from the top menu.
Step 2: Select the Audio icon.
Step 3: Choose Audio on My PC.
Step 4: Browse and select your desired audio file, then click Insert.
Step 5: Click on the audio icon that appears on your slide.
Step 6: Go to the Playback tab at the top and select Play in Background. If it doesn’t appear naturally, click on the audio button on your presentation slide.
Using a Mac? The steps remain largely the same. Just note that the “Play in Background” option can be found in the top menu under the Audio Format tab.
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Wrapping Up
The last time I made a photo slideshow was for my cousin’s farewell party; it wasn’t the animations or custom text that made it special. It was the fact that a handful of photos, stitched with the right song, turned into a memory everyone could share. That’s the real power of a slideshow project; sometimes the simplest tools create the moments that stick.
Frequently Asked Questions
What file formats and resolutions should I use for photos and music to make sure my slideshow looks and sounds good?
Use PNG or JPEG images in high resolution and MP4 for video. For music, stick to MP3. Keep file sizes balanced so your slideshow’s duration runs smoothly across devices without losing quality.
What tips do you have for selecting music that matches the mood of my picture slideshow?
Choose background music that reflects your theme, uplifting for celebrations, calm for memories. Many music libraries in slideshow software offer tracks, or you can upload your own song to set the tone.
How do I export and share my photo slideshow with music on social media or by email?
Always preview before exporting. Then download in MP4 format and easily upload to Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube. For email, compress the slideshow video to ensure quick delivery.
Is it possible to make a slideshow with music on my smartphone, and which apps are best for this?
Yes, you can. On iPhone, Androids, use Adobe Express, Animoto, or Microsoft Clipchamp. The best way to make a picture slideshow with free slideshow makers and online slideshow makers is to choose the ones that allow quick editing, uploading, and adding music directly from your phone.
Does anyone know of an automated slideshow maker?
Yes, SlideSpeak is a smart slideshow creator that turns photos, text, or video clips into polished presentations automatically. It’s simpler than most slideshow software or a free online picture slideshow maker, saving you time and effort.
How can I make a slideshow better?
Enhance your slideshow with video clips, smooth animations, custom text boxes, varied fonts, creative layouts, or a stylish template. A user-friendly interface and strong functionality make your slideshow project feel professional.
How many photos and/or videos can be included in a slideshow?
It depends on the timeline and duration. In fact, PowerPoint is a very good way for how to make a slideshow with pictures and videos without limitations. On PC or tablet, most slideshow software supports dozens of photos and video clips, but keeping it under 5–7 minutes usually works best for viewers.
What are the options for saving and sharing your slideshow?
Save as a slideshow video in MP4 format. Preview, then upload or download for easy sharing on YouTube, email, or cloud storage. This makes your slideshow project portable and accessible anywhere.
Can you explain how to make a slideshow with music on Windows 10 or 11 without installing extra software?
For how to make a picture slideshow on windows, use the built-in Microsoft PowerPoint or Microsoft Clipchamp on your PC. Both allow you to upload photos, arrange slides, add music, and export a slideshow video without extra downloads.
How can I create a picture slideshow with music on a Mac using the Photos app?
Open Photos, select your images, and choose “Slideshow.” Add a track from your library, then preview. For how to make a picture slideshow on Mac with more control, explore Adobe tools for templates and layouts when making a picture slideshow on Mac.
How to make picture slideshow on iPhone with music?
Open the Photos app, select your images, and tap Slideshow. You can choose a theme, add a song from your library, and adjust playback speed. This is the simplest way for how to make picture slideshow on iPhone without needing extra apps.
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