Step 1 of 5
Test the final video on the actual television
To play a timed slideshow with music from USB, export it as a video, copy that file to a compatible drive, and open it with the television's media player. Check the exact TV manual first. A USB socket does not guarantee support for your video, audio format, drive, or file size.
A television's photo browser may show still images without preserving your edit, music, captions, or timing. A video export keeps those parts together. For a wedding, retirement party, or birthday reveal, test the same file and equipment that will be used during the event.
Step 2 of 5
Get these details from the venue
MP4 is a file container, not a promise of compatibility. Two MP4 files can use different codecs or settings. Sony's support documentation illustrates why format support is model dependent. Ask for the model number rather than accepting 'it plays videos' as the whole test.
Step 3 of 5
Prepare an event copy without disturbing your archive
| Item | Preparation |
|---|---|
| Final file | Use a clear name such as Wedding-video-final.mp4. |
| USB drive | Use a drive supported by the TV and verify the copied file opens. |
| Local backup | Keep the same video on a charged laptop. |
| Sound | Test speech and music from the back of the room. |
| Operator note | Write down the input, filename, volume, and point in the program to press play. |
Back up any existing drive contents before changing its file system. If the television rejects the drive, use a supported spare or the laptop backup. Do not make an untested formatting or conversion change while guests are waiting.
Step 4 of 5
Rehearse more than the first few seconds
Play the introduction, a quiet spoken clip, the loudest music section, and the ending. Check that the picture is not stretched and that names remain readable. Confirm the TV does not repeat the video unexpectedly or move into another file when playback ends.
If the clip has no sound, inspect the TV's audio output and the file's audio support separately. If the file is not listed, start with the drive format and filename, then the supported video settings. Make one change at a time and repeat the test.
Step 5 of 5
Build a fallback that works without venue Wi-Fi
Keep a local copy on the laptop, bring the correct HDMI adapter, and rehearse that route too. Plug in power and silence notifications. Confirm how to show the video full screen without exposing private tabs or messages. An online preview link can be a useful extra, but do not make an untested connection the only plan.
Finish the content early enough to run this check. Our wedding slideshow and video guest-book comparison covers the story, while the private family video sharing guide covers sending a copy afterward. Download and inspect the finished AlbumMap video before taking it to a venue.
Finish line
Route complete: 5 steps
Need to check something again? Jump straight back to any stop.
Sources and further reading
Helpful answers
Frequently asked questions
Will any MP4 play on my TV?
No. Check the TV model's supported codecs, resolution, audio format, and USB requirements. Test the actual export on that TV before the event.
Can I show a slideshow without internet?
A compatible TV or laptop can play a locally saved video without internet. Download the complete file first and test it with the connection turned off.
Should I use the TV's built-in photo slideshow?
Use it only if still-photo playback meets your needs. A video export is more suitable when you need your chosen scene order, captions, music, and timing to remain together.
