Hands down, the iPhoto for Windows is Picasa. However, I found myself with dozens of wedding pictures I shot for a cousin’s wedding, and I know the best way to give the newlyweds a copy is to convert it into a slideshow. So, can Picasa create a slideshow VCD/DVD with music?
No. I even asked Picasa support, and they did mention they had numerous requests for that feature. Henceforth, I go Googling, and found ProShow.
The ProShow software isn’t a Picasa substitute on Windows, but if you do want slideshows on VCD, or DVD (available only for the ProShow Gold version) with music, here’s the next best deal. It’s a 15-day shareware program, but comes fully functional. No annoying logos on your videos, or time-limit restrictions.
Once the program is fired up, one’ll see its all drag-and-drop. Provided in the default screen is a file explorer, a thumbnail viewer, larger image previews, and the slideshow timeline. Transition effects from slide to slide is abundant, and frame timing, as well as fade-in, fade-out music is easily set.
The best features are the output options. From your basic VCD setup (set it to XVCD resolution for best quality), to a VCD with themed menus, PC Autorun capabilities, and an optional still show. Really nice touches if you want to give them out as gifts.
