In the world of PC we have Windows Live Movie Maker which is part of the Windows 7, free. Movie Maker is easy to use with a drag and drop interface and single click application of transition animations and custom timing for image transitions. When used in combination with Windows Live DVD Maker you can create wonderful imagery to display on your television as well.
There are several things to consider when making your movies;
Select music that helps communicate the message of your imagery. Marilyn Manson might not be the best choice for tribute to grandma on her 99th birthday and the Hee Haw theme song wouldn't likely be the best choice for nine year old's birthday.
Time the transitions from one image to another image to the rhythm of the music. Listen to the music as a series of phrases. When a new phrase begins, an image transition would fit there.
Use music appropriate to the target destination. If you are simply going to play the video in your home, you can use any song you like. But if you upload a video to youtube with copyrighted music, youtube will remove it and replace it with its own music. All music is copyrighted by the way. Many sites sell songs for use like this.
I will be putting together a low cost workshop soon for how to get the most out of this display option soon. Possibly in October.
