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How to Use Technology to Strengthen Family Ties
017 How to Display Photos in Digital Frames
A digital photo frame by Think Geek
Many digital photo frames offer standard features like built-in memory, Wi-Fi, and video playback. Here are some considerations:
- Decide what size photo frame you want. This can be based on the cost, where you want to display it, and the style that you want.
- Consider the features that you would like the frame to have – amount of memory, ability to upload videos, etc.
- Decide the number of photos that you want to use. Since the photos are spooled, or repeat continuously, the more photos will affect the number of time they are seen.
- Decide if you want a theme. For instance, at Christmas time, you could upload pictures of Christmas’ past, a vacation, or do baby pictures for a child’s birthday.
- Follow the directions that come with your particular digital photo frame, and you’ll have an interesting, attractive, and simple way for you and your family and friends to view your photos.
Here’s another route to the same end: If you have a flat-screen computer monitor and computer that aren’t being used for other purposes, consider using them for displaying your photos. A friend of ours gave us a set-up like this as a favor. In addition to the low out-of-pocket cost, computer monitor screens are usually larger and can be more easily viewed from a distance than the typical digital photo frame.
He attached a beautiful rosewood frame with adhesive Velcro strips to the monitor and loaded up the computer with hundreds of our photos. We placed the framed monitor on the buffet in the dining room and hid the computer behind it on the floor. It ran day and night, delighting family and friends for years before digital photo frames became commercially available.
PC Magazine has these additional tips for the purchase and use of a digital photo frame:
Rule 1: Consider the User – Some photo frames allow wifi or other interfaces which boosts the price. If you’re never going to use these features, then don’t spend the extra money.
Rule 2: Don’t Buy Based on Brand Name Alone. Read the reviews about the performance, since it might not be what you want.
Rule 3: Never Settle for a Resolution Below 640 by 480 – Regardless of Price
Rule 4: Select Your Aspect Ratio – Photo frames generally support either a 4:3 or 15:9 aspect ratio. 4:3 is what your typical digital camera produces and that is also what most photo frames require.
Rule 5: Images Are Only Part of the Picture – Remember that great picture quality isn’t everything. Do you want to be able to use the frame in both portrait and landscape mode? Do you want to include video in addition to viewing photos? Do you want to set your photo slideshows to music? Check these out before you buy.