Video Authoring - Google Photos

1 Google Photos

Google Photos - Announced at Google I / O 2015, offers :

1. Free unlimited space (.it seems that a monthly limit is enforced. - furthermore the images you upload gets compressed slightly)
2. Automatic backup of photos and movies
3. Smart organization and categorization
4. Online authoring tools
5. sharing and export capabilities

It’s available on IOS and Android (and accessible by browser @ photos.google.com ).

2 Formats

Google photos handles : .png, .jpg, .webp, .gif, .crw, .cr2, .nef, .dng, .orf, .raf, .arw, .pef, .srw, .rw2, .bmp, .ico, .tiff image formats and .mpg, .mod, .mmv, .tod, .wmv, .asf, .avi, .divx, .mov, .m4v, .3gp, .3g2, .mp4, .m2t, .m2ts, .mts, .mkv video formats.

3 Resolutions

If you choose high quality setting instead of original quality, you get endless storage space. This setting limits the resolution of the pictures and video to 16MP and 1080p( It appears as if movies are being stored in the original resolution, - if you save a 4K movie in google photos and then share it on youtube, the maximum resolution via google photos is 1080p, but on youtube it is possible to choose to see the film in 4K), and the images and movies that are uploaded will be compressed, which may cause a loss of quality. Unfortunately it seems to films made in the app from images have a maximum resolution of 720p, regardless of the resolution of the source material.

4 Getting started

To make a film, start by selecting some images, press the + icon and choose the movie option. The app will download the images from googles servers and present you with a screen allowing you to: 

• Choose a style
• Select/Change music
• Remove individual images
• Share movie.
• Export movie.

5 Styles

It is currently possible to choose between 17 different styles for the film, The chosen style, and music can change the perception of video dramatically :

5.1 Examples:

• Big City\
• Outdoor\
• 8mm\
• Action\
• Documentary\
• Extreme\
• Festival\
• Glamour\
• Lo-Fi\
• Memories\
• Modern pop\
• Punk\
• Showtime\
• Natural\
• Vintage\

6 Music

The Movie Editor Includes some songs in different genres, and the app tries to match the music to the selected movie style. After choosing the music, the movie is recut to match the new music.

7 Sharing options

Choosing the ‘share’ option allows you to send the movie to any app on your device capable of handling video. This allows you to play the video on a chromecast, share it on facebook, youtube etc.

8 Movie export

Choosing to export the movie saves it on your device(and in google photos) allowing transfer to a computer for further refinements.

9 A Short History of Digital Slideshows

The concept of turning photographs into dynamic presentations predates modern smartphones. Early personal computers in the 1990s introduced simple slideshow software that required manual sequencing. As broadband Internet became widespread, web-based services emerged, allowing users to share photo stories online. Google Photos built on this legacy by offering accessible cloud storage and automated movie creation tools.

10 Pros and Cons of Using Google Photos

Pros

• Seamless integration with Android and other Google services
• Automated video creation saves time for casual users

Cons

• Limited customization compared to professional editing suites
• Reliance on internet connectivity for uploads and exports

11 Actionable Tips for Better Movies

1. Organize your albums ahead of time so Google’s algorithms can easily detect the story flow.
2. Use short video clips alongside still images to add variety and movement.
3. Experiment with different music tracks to see which best matches the mood of your photos.

12 Looking Toward Advanced Tools

While Google Photos is ideal for quick compilations, more advanced editors provide granular control over transitions, color correction, and sound mixing. If you plan to publish your videos professionally or for a wider audience, consider exporting your project and refining it in dedicated software. This hybrid approach combines Google’s convenience with advanced creative features.

13 Broader Applications

As smartphone cameras and storage capacity improve, families gather thousands of pictures each year. Google Photos uses machine learning to group images by date and location, simplifying the process of creating memorable slideshows. Revisiting these collections helps preserve family history and strengthens personal connections.

Consider pairing Google Photos with cloud backup services for added security. This ensures your cherished memories remain accessible even if your device is lost or damaged. Sharing collaborative albums also makes it easy for relatives to contribute photos from different perspectives, enriching the final video compilation.

14 Final Takeaway

The accessibility of tools like Google Photos democratizes video creation for everyday users. As you refine your skills, consider experimenting with professional editing software to elevate your projects. The core idea remains the same: use technology to preserve memories and share your unique perspective with those you care about.