Displaying guest photos on a big screen is the easiest way to transform any event. Instead of a static slideshow or a looping video, you get a live, crowd-sourced photo wall that updates in real time as guests upload from their phones.
What You Need
- A screen — projector, TV, or monitor. Any size works, but bigger is better.
- A laptop or tablet — connected to the screen via HDMI (or wirelessly via AirPlay/Chromecast)
- An internet connection — the display device needs WiFi or a mobile hotspot. Guests use their own mobile data.
- A photo wall platform — like MemWall, which handles the QR code, uploads, moderation, and live display.
Step-by-Step Setup
1. Create Your Event (2 minutes)
Sign up at memwall.app/signup and create an event. Choose a name, pick a visual theme, and set your photo limit. You'll get a unique QR code and display URL.
2. Connect the Screen (5 minutes)
Plug a laptop into the projector or TV via HDMI. Open Chrome and navigate to your event's display URL. Press F11 for fullscreen. That's your live photo wall.
3. Display the QR Code
Guests need to see the QR code to participate. Options:
- On-screen — The photo wall shows the QR code between photos automatically
- Printed table cards — Download the QR code image and print it on table tents or cards
- Welcome sign — Add the QR code to your event signage
- Event program — Include it in printed programs or digital invitations
4. Guests Scan and Upload
Guests point their phone camera at the QR code. A web page opens (no app download). They tap to take a photo or upload from their gallery. The photo appears on the big screen within seconds.
Display Modes
Different events call for different display styles:
- Gallery wall — Photos appear in a grid, newest first. Great for parties and casual events.
- Slideshow — Photos rotate one at a time with smooth transitions. Perfect for wedding receptions and formal events.
- Gravity drop — Photos fall from the top of the screen and stack up. Fun and playful for parties.
- Mosaic — Guest photos assemble into a larger image (like the couple's portrait). Premium feature for weddings.
MemWall lets you switch between display modes in real time from your dashboard.
Hardware Recommendations
Projectors
For dark venues (ballrooms, banquet halls), a projector works great. Aim for at least 3,000 lumens so photos are visible. A white wall or screen at 80-120 inches diagonal is ideal.
TVs and Monitors
For daytime events, lit rooms, or outdoor events, a bright TV (55-75 inches) is better than a projector. Modern TVs are bright enough for any lighting condition. Many venues already have TVs you can use.
Multiple Screens
For large venues, you can open the same display URL on multiple devices. All screens show the same live feed. Use multiple TVs around the venue so every table has a view.
Content Moderation
The biggest concern with live guest photos on a big screen: inappropriate content. MemWall includes AI-powered NSFW filtering on every plan (including free). The filter runs locally on the guest's device before the photo is uploaded, so inappropriate content never reaches the screen.
You can also enable manual moderation, where photos go to a review queue before appearing on the display.
Common Questions
What if the WiFi is bad?
Guests don't need venue WiFi — they upload using their own mobile data (4G/5G). Only the display laptop needs an internet connection. If you're worried about the display connection, bring a mobile hotspot as backup.
How many photos can be displayed?
Depends on your plan. MemWall's free plan allows 10 photos, Party plan ($9) allows 200, Pro plan ($29) allows 500, and Business plan ($49) is unlimited.
Can guests upload videos?
MemWall currently supports photo uploads. For video messages, consider recording them separately and playing them between photo wall sessions.
Does it work without internet?
The display requires an internet connection to receive new photos. However, photos that have already loaded will remain visible even if the connection drops temporarily. Guest uploads queue automatically and send when their connection is restored.
Try It Free
Create a free event on MemWall and test the full display experience before your event. The free plan includes 10 photos and all display modes — enough to see exactly how it works.