Adding video to your funeral presentation
In addition to photos, you can also add short videos to the presentation. Moving images can be very powerful — but there are considerations.
When to add video?
Video works well for:
- Characteristic moments: a laugh, a gesture, a way of speaking
- Special occasions: a speech, a birthday, a family gathering
- The voice: sometimes hearing someone's voice is the most valuable
A video of 10-15 seconds can have more impact than 5 photos. Choose quality over quantity.
When better not?
Video doesn't always fit:
- Poor quality: blurry or dark videos are distracting
- Too long: videos longer than 30 seconds interrupt the flow
- Not matching the mood: funny videos can feel inappropriate
Technical requirements
Supported formats
Most systems support:
- MP4 (most universal)
- MOV (iPhone)
- AVI (older cameras)
Length and size
- Keep videos short: 10-30 seconds per clip
- Maximum file size varies by system
- Compress large videos beforehand if needed
Sound
Important: Ask the funeral home if video with sound can be played.
- Some venues don't have audio equipment at the screen
- The presentation music usually doesn't stop automatically
- Discuss in advance how it works technically
Preparing video
1. Select the right clip
Watch the full video and choose the best part. You don't have to use the entire video.
2. Trim the video
Cut the video to only the relevant part. This can be done with:
- iPhone: Photos app → Edit
- Android: Google Photos → Edit
- Computer: various free programs (VLC, iMovie)
3. Check the quality
Watch the video on a larger screen. Is the image sharp enough? Is the sound understandable?
Where to place in the presentation?
At the beginning: A short video as an opening can be powerful.
In the middle: Interrupt the photo flow with a moment of movement.
At the end: A closing video with a message or a final image.
Don't place more than 2-3 videos in a 5-minute presentation. Too many videos makes it restless.
Coordinating with the funeral home
Contact them in advance and ask:
- Can you play video? (not all systems support this)
- What format? (usually MP4)
- Is sound possible?
- How does the control work? (does the video start automatically or manually?)
Video in PowerPoint
If you export to PowerPoint:
- Videos are embedded in the file
- File size increases
- Check that the video plays on the venue's computer
Alternatives to video
No suitable video? Consider:
- Photos with motion: slowly zooming in on a photo (Ken Burns effect)
- Sequential photos: multiple photos of the same moment in quick succession
- Audio clip: just the voice, with a photo
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a YouTube video?
Technically yes, but:
- You need the rights
- YouTube quality can be low
- It's often better to use the original file
How large can a video file be?
For a presentation, 50-100 MB per video is sufficient. Larger files make the presentation sluggish and can cause playback problems.
Does video also work with the Farewell Player?
Yes, the Farewell Player supports video. The video is embedded and plays automatically.
What if I only have old VHS tapes?
You can have these digitized at specialized services. Expect €10-20 per tape.
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