Pairing music with images turns ordinary photos into evocative memories. Whether you’re preserving a family reunion or a personal milestone, a music‑backed slideshow brings emotion to life.
Part 1. How to Create a Slideshow with Music on iPhone for Free
The built‑in Photos app lets you turn photos and videos into a dynamic slideshow with a soundtrack, all at no cost. Follow these simple steps, based on iOS 18, to bring your memories to life.
Step 1 – Open the Photos App
Launch Photos, tap the Albums tab, and select the photos or videos you want to include. Tap Select in the top‑right corner and choose your media.
Step 2 – Create the Slideshow
After selection, tap the More icon (three dots) and choose Play as Slideshow. When the slideshow starts, tap Options at the top. Here you can rename the slideshow, reorder photos, and choose the soundtrack.
Step 3 – Save or Share
To keep the slideshow, select Share → Save Video. You can also send the video directly via AirDrop, Messages, or e‑mail.
Photos also offers a Memories feature that automatically assembles photos and videos into themed slideshows with music. While it’s quick and free, it lacks advanced customization, direct saving options, and a variety of themes.
Part 2. Top iPhone Apps for Creating Photo Slideshows with Music
For users who need more control, the following six apps provide robust features, from AI‑generated music to cinematic templates. All are compatible with recent iOS versions.
1. Filmora (4.7 / 5)
Filmora is a full‑featured video editor that excels at slideshow creation. Import photos, set durations, add transitions, and overlay text or filters. Its built‑in royalty‑free library and AI music generator allow you to craft a unique soundtrack.
- Customizable text, animations, and filters
- Wide range of transitions and aspect ratios
- AI Music Generator for personalized tracks
- Supports photos and video clips
Pros: High‑quality output, intuitive interface, multi‑platform support.
Cons: Some premium features require a subscription.
Compatibility: iOS 12.0 +.
2. Slideshow Maker & Music Video (3.5 / 5)
Designed for quick, template‑based slideshows, this app offers birthday, anniversary, and celebration themes. Add music, titles, and transitions with a simple drag‑and‑drop interface.
- Lightweight, fast setup
- Export to major social platforms
Pros: Easy to use, free core app.
Cons: Limited customization, ad‑supported.
Compatibility: iOS 15.0 +.
3. Slideshow Add Music to Photos (4.4 / 5)
Ideal for straightforward slideshow creation, this app lets you select photos, choose a track, and add transitions with minimal effort.
- Upload local tracks or choose from library
- Smooth transitions and basic filters
Pros: Direct social sharing, good transition selection.
Cons: No advanced editing, occasional bugs.
Compatibility: iOS 11.2 +.
4. Picflix – Flipagram Slideshow (4 / 5)
Picflix offers a clean interface for assembling photos and short video clips into engaging slideshows. Pick a theme, add music, adjust transitions, crop, and apply filters.
- Combined photo & video support
- Music library or user‑uploaded tracks
- Professional filters and transitions
Pros: Quick exports, social media sharing.
Cons: Repetitive wording in pros/cons section.
Compatibility: iOS 12.2 +.
5. SlideShow Maker Photo to Video (4.2 / 5)
This versatile app turns any photo collection into a polished slideshow. Customize music, playback speed, and choose from a wide selection of filters and themes.
- High‑quality exports to multiple platforms
- Rich filter and theme library
Pros: Extensive creative options.
Cons: Watermarks in free version, slower on older devices.
Compatibility: iOS 13.0 +.
6. SlideShow Maker Photo Video (4.5 / 5)
Balancing simplicity with creativity, this app supports both photos and videos. Add music, pre‑designed cinematic themes, and a variety of effects including stickers, shapes, and FX.
- Audio from library or own tracks
- Professional cinematic templates
- Effect‑rich editing tools
Pros: Supports video, high‑quality export, beginner‑friendly.
Cons: Watermarks in free version, occasional lag.
Compatibility: iOS 13.0 +.
Part 3. Filmora on Windows & Mac – Your Desktop Slideshow Companion
Filmora is not limited to iPhone. Its desktop version offers the same powerful features—royalty‑free music, dynamic transitions, text overlays, and export options—making it a one‑stop shop for professional‑looking slideshows.
- Drag‑and‑drop timeline for effortless editing
- Customizable text, subtitles, and titles
- Built‑in filters, overlays, and animations
- Export to MP4, MOV, or direct upload to YouTube
With Filmora, you can apply the same creative vision across mobile and desktop, ensuring consistency in your slideshow projects.
Conclusion
Creating a music‑backed slideshow is an effective way to commemorate any event. Start with the free Photos app for a quick solution, or elevate your project with one of the six top apps highlighted above. For the most advanced editing, Filmora stands out as the premier choice, offering powerful tools on both iPhone and desktop.