Display workflow
How to Run a Live Wedding Photo Slideshow
Turn guest uploads into a reception display without leaving connectivity, moderation, or screen ownership to chance.
By Chandra
Product documentation and wedding photo sharing guides
Short answer
Use a dedicated laptop or streaming device, connect it to the venue screen before guests arrive, preload approved opening photos, and assign one person to monitor both uploads and playback. A live feed should have a moderation and offline fallback plan, not just a gallery URL.
Decide what “live” should mean
| Mode | Best use | Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Curated loop | Reliable decor throughout the reception | Does not reflect new uploads immediately |
| Reviewed live queue | Fresh guest pictures with host control | Needs an active moderator |
| Automatic live feed | Informal events with a trusted audience | Every accidental upload can reach the screen |
For most weddings, a reviewed queue balances participation with control. Start with professional engagement pictures or approved family photos so the screen is never empty.
Confirm the venue signal chain
Ask which connector the display accepts, its resolution, whether sound should be disabled, and who controls input switching. Bring the correct adapter, power supply, extension cable, and a way to prevent the laptop from sleeping. Hide system notifications and close personal tabs before connecting.
Test using the venue network
Run the real slideshow while several phones upload sample files. Check how long new images take to appear and how the player behaves after a connection drop. Venue guest Wi-Fi can have a sign-in page or device limit that was not present during office testing.
Assign two operational roles
The display owner handles cables, full-screen playback, and restarts. The collection moderator reviews incoming files and removes anything unsuitable. One person can perform both at a small event, but the couple should not be that person.
Choose the right moments
A slideshow works well during cocktails, dinner transitions, and later dancing. Dim it or switch it off during speeches, first dances, and other moments where movement on a bright screen competes for attention. Place the display where people can glance at it without blocking service paths.
Prepare a graceful fallback
Store an offline folder or video loop of approved images on the display device. If uploads stall, continue showing that set and let guests contribute for later. The photo collection can still succeed even when the live layer is unavailable.
Make the ask easy
Collect the photos guests actually took.
Give guests one QR code, let them upload from the browser, and keep the gallery under your control. Photos, videos, late uploads, and one download when you are ready.
Learn more about Folded as a wedding photo sharing app for guests.