How to choose photos for a growing film
The one photo per year rule, why angle matters more than quality, and which photo goes last.
2 min read
A growing film works because each photo flows into the next. When two neighbouring photos share an angle and a distance, the transition reads as time passing. When they are very different, it reads as a jump. That is why the choice matters more than the amount.
One photo per year or two
Thirteen years, thirteen photos. That is roughly a one minute film. You do not need more. If you have a hundred photos, pick the one with the clearest face from each year.
Angle before quality
- Face toward the camera, or nearly.
- Head and shoulders, not a full body from far away.
- Eyes open, no sunglasses if you can help it.
- An old grainy photo from the right angle beats a sharp one from the side.
Similar light
Outdoor daytime shots and indoor night shots switch harshly. If you can, keep the same kind of light through the film. Not critical, but it is what separates good from moving.
The last photo
End with a photo from the last month, one the person actually likes. That is the frame that stays on screen while the guests applaud.
What does not work
- Group photos where you have to look for the person.
- Photos with heavy filters.
- Photos where the face is covered by a hand, hair or a hat.
Not sure? Upload two photos and try the first clip for free. You see the transition yourself, then decide on the rest.