> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.fotify.app/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.fotify.app/using-the-live-carousel.md).

# Using the Live Carousel

The Live Carousel is one of Fotify's most engaging features, displaying photos in real-time during your event. This guide explains how to set up, customize, and share this dynamic display.

## Accessing the Carousel

You can access the Live Carousel in several ways:

1. **From the Events Page**:
   * Find your active event
   * Click the "Live" button or select "Live" from the dropdown menu
2. **From the Photos Page**:
   * Navigate to the "Photos" section
   * Find your event
   * Click the "Live" button

## Carousel Controls

The carousel interface includes:

1. **Speed Control**:
   * Default setting is 3 seconds
2. **Display Controls**:
   * Fullscreen toggle
   * Share button for public viewing
3. **Information Display**:
   * Author name
   * Photo message/caption
   * Periodic QR code for uploads

## Carousel Features

### Real-time Updates

The carousel automatically:

1. Fetches new approved photos at regular intervals
2. Adds them to the display rotation
3. Shows the most recent content first
4. Maintains smooth transitions between photos

### Matrix Background

The dynamic background displays:

1. Miniature versions of event photos
2. Animated movement for visual interest
3. Low-opacity overlay that doesn't distract from main photos
4. Automatic color matching with main images

### QR Code Display

The system periodically shows:

1. A prominent QR code for easy uploads
2. Brief instructions for guests
3. Automatic timing based on event activity
4. Smart positioning that doesn't interfere with photos

## Setting Up for Display

For optimal viewing experience:

1. **Hardware Recommendations**:
   * Large screen TV or projector
   * Stable internet connection (wired if possible)
   * Dedicated computer or tablet
   * Proper viewing angle for all guests
2. **Browser Setup**:
   * Use Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge
   * Enable fullscreen mode (F11 or fullscreen button)
   * Test performance before the event
   * Consider disabling sleep/screensaver settings

## Public Sharing

To share the carousel with remote viewers:

1. Click the Share button in the carousel controls
2. In the sharing modal:
   * Copy the generated public link
   * Optionally generate a new link (invalidates previous links)
   * Share via your preferred method

The public link:

* Doesn't require login
* Updates in real-time
* Works on mobile and desktop devices
* Expires when the event ends

## Carousel Behavior

The carousel handles different scenarios intelligently:

1. **No Photos Yet**:
   * Displays welcome message
   * Shows prominent QR code
   * Provides upload instructions
   * Updates immediately when photos arrive
2. **Few Photos**:
   * Cycles through available images
   * Displays each photo longer
   * Shows QR code more frequently
   * Transitions smoothly between limited content
3. **Many Photos**:
   * Prioritizes recent uploads
   * Cycles through all approved content
   * Balances showing variety and new submissions
   * Optimizes loading for performance

## Best Practices

1. **Test Before the Event**:
   * Upload test photos
   * Check display on actual equipment
   * Verify internet connectivity
   * Confirm QR code is scannable from viewing distance
2. **Optimize Speed Settings**:
   * Smaller events: 4-5 seconds per photo
   * Larger events: 2-3 seconds per photo
   * Adjust based on upload frequency
   * Consider audience engagement
3. **Encourage Participation**:
   * Announce the carousel to guests
   * Point out the QR code when it appears
   * Highlight interesting photos periodically
   * Create photo challenges or themes
4. **Technical Management**:
   * Monitor internet connectivity
   * Have backup display options
   * Check moderation queue regularly
   * Restart browser if performance decreases

## Troubleshooting

Common issues and solutions:

1. **Carousel Not Updating**:
   * Check internet connection
   * Verify event is still in "Live" status
   * Confirm photos are being approved
   * Refresh the browser
2. **Performance Issues**:
   * Reduce transition speed
   * Close other browser tabs
   * Restart the browser
   * Check system resources
3. **Display Problems**:
   * Adjust screen resolution
   * Try different browsers
   * Check fullscreen mode
   * Verify compatible hardware
4. **QR Code Not Appearing**:
   * Wait longer (appears periodically)
   * Refresh the carousel
   * Check that uploads are enabled
   * Verify event status is "Live"