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Windows XP and Explorer

Enable Filmstrip View for a Folder

SUMMARY: Enable filmstrip view in Windows XP Explorer when it does not automatically detect a particular folder contains mostly images.

Explorer in Windows XP has a feature called filmstrip view, accessible if you select "View" - "Filmstrip" in folders that contain pictures. This lets you horizontally scroll through your images as if they were on a filmstrip, and you can select an image to see a larger version above the filmstrip.

If you are browsing a folder in Windows XP containing mostly images and this feature is not available, you may need to customize the current folder's view:

Example of Filmstrip View in a folder in Windows XP Explorer

1. Select "View" - "Customize This Folder".

2. The folder properties multi-tabbed dialog box will appear. Underneath "Use this folder type as a template" choose "Pictures" or "Photo Album" as desired.

3. Click "OK" to close the dialog box.

The "View" - "Filmstrip" option should now be available.