In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the simple steps to disable/hide or show the filmstrip in your photo viewer on Windows 10 and Windows 11, thus allowing you to focus on what truly matters: your stunning images.
To begin with, here is a quick step guide to disable filmstrip in photo viewer on Windows:
- Right-click an image file and choose “Open with” > “Windows Photo Viewer.”
- Hover your mouse at the bottom of the window to reveal the toolbar.
- Click the filmstrip icon in the toolbar to hide the filmstrip view.
However, this is just an overview of steps. As you continue reading the blog further, you’ll find that we have mentioned more methods, each with their step-by-step instructions to disable, hide or show the filmstrip in your photo viewer on both Windows 10 and Windows 11.
What are the advantages of disable/hide or show Filmstrip in Photos Viewer App in Windows 11?
The filmstrip in the Windows 11 Photos App provides a thumbnail view of your images, allowing you to quickly navigate between them.
However, depending on your preferences and usage, you might find it beneficial to disable or hide it. To illustrate this point, here are the advantages of disabling filmstrip in photo viewer:
- Simplified Interface: Firstly, disabling the filmstrip simplifies the Photos App interface, making it easier to focus on the current photo.
- Reduced Clutter: Secondly, hiding the filmstrip reduces clutter and distractions, allowing you to concentrate on the photo you’re viewing.
- Improved Navigation: Thirdly, without the filmstrip, you can navigate through your photos more efficiently, as you won’t have to scroll through a list of thumbnails.
- Increased Screen Real Estate: Furthermore, disabling the filmstrip frees up screen space, making it ideal for smaller screens or for those who prefer a more minimalist interface.
- Better Full-Screen Experience: Lastly, hiding the filmstrip enhances the full-screen viewing experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in your photos.
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How do I disable Filmstrip in Microsoft Photo Viewer App ?
Disabling or turning Off filmstrip in the Microsoft Photos app can help create a more focused photo viewing experience. Here are step-by-step instructions for several methods to disable filmstrip in Microsoft photo viewer app :
Method 1: Use full-screen mode
Open the Photos app: First, click the Start menu and type “Photos” to open the Microsoft Photos app.
Select a photo: Next, browse your images and double-click the photo you want to view.
Enter full-screen mode:
- Once the photo is open, press the F11 key on your keyboard to enter full-screen mode.
- Alternatively, you can click the full-screen icon (usually located in the top-right corner of the window).
- Hide the filmstrip: Subsequently, in full-screen mode, the filmstrip will not be visible, allowing you to focus solely on the image.
- Exit full-screen mode: Finally, to exit full-screen mode, press the F11 key again or move your mouse to the top of the screen to reveal the toolbar and click the exit full-screen icon.
Method 2: Use the Settings menu
Open the Photos app: To begin, launch the Microsoft Photos app from the Start menu.
Access Settings:
- Then, click the three-dot menu (More options) in the top-right corner of the app.
- After that, select “Settings” from the drop-down menu.
Adjust display options:
- Next, look for options related to display or layout. While there may not be a direct option to disable the filmstrip, you can adjust other settings to improve your viewing experience.
- If available, disable any options that mention the filmstrip or thumbnails.
- Close Settings: Lastly, once you’ve made adjustments, close the settings menu and return to photo viewing.
Close Settings: The filmstrip in Windows 10 Photo Viewer is a horizontal bar at the bottom displaying thumbnails of other images for quick navigation. To disable filmstrip in photo viewer on Windows, simply enter full-screen mode to hide it and focus on the current image.
Method 3: Use keyboard shortcuts
Open the Photos app: First, launch the Microsoft Photos app.
Select a photo: Then, click the photo you want to view.
Use keyboard shortcuts:
- Subsequently, press Ctrl + Enter to enter full-screen mode, which will hide the filmstrip.
- Additionally, you can also use the arrow keys to navigate your photos without the filmstrip being visible.
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Method 4: Change the default photo viewer
Download and Install: to start, download FastStone Image Viewer from their official website (faststone.org) and install it on your computer.
Open an Image: Next, right-click on an image file and select “Open with” > “FastStone Image Viewer.”
Customize Settings:
- Then, go to “View” > “Options” to access the settings.
- After that, look for options related to the filmstrip or thumbnail display. You might find settings to disable the filmstrip entirely or customize its appearance.
- Finally, experiment with the settings to find the configuration that best suits your needs.
Method 5: Disable Filmstrip using the Group Policy Editor (for Windows 11 Pro and above)
- First, press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
- Next, type gpedit.msc and press Enter to open the Group Policy Editor.
- Then, navigate to the following policy path: Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Explorer
- After that, find the policy named Disable filmstrip in Windows Explorer and double-click on it.
- Subsequently, select the Enabled option and click OK to apply the changes.
- Finally, close the Group Policy Editor and restart the Photos App.
Method 5: Disable Filmstrip using a Registry File
- To begin, download a registry file that disables the filmstrip in the Photos App.
- Next, save the file to your desktop or a location of your choice.
- Then, double-click on the registry file to run it.
- After that, click Yes to confirm the changes.
- Lastly, restart the Photos App.
Note: Be cautious when using registry files from unknown sources, as they may contain malicious code.
Also Check: How to Export and Import specific firewall rules on Windows ?
Conclusion
In conclusion, disabling or hiding the filmstrip in your Windows photo viewer can significantly enhance your viewing experience.
Moreover, whether you prefer a cleaner interface, more screen real estate, or a distraction-free environment, the methods we’ve explored to disable filmstrip in photo viewer on Windows offer solutions for every user.
Furthermore, from simple keyboard shortcuts to more advanced techniques like using the Group Policy Editor, you now have a variety of options at your disposal.
Remember, the best method for you depends on your specific needs and comfort level with technical adjustments.
Therefore, don’t hesitate to experiment with different approaches to find what works best for you. By customizing your photo viewer, you’ll be able to focus on what truly matters – enjoying your cherished memories and stunning images.
Source: [ elevenforum, microsoft, anoopcnair ]
Frequently Asked Question’s (FAQ’s)
Enter full-screen mode by pressing F11 or using Ctrl + Enter after selecting a photo. This will hide the filmstrip and allow you to focus solely on the image. If you prefer a different viewing experience, consider changing your default photo viewer to one that doesn’t feature a filmstrip.
The filmstrip in Windows 10 Photo Viewer is a horizontal bar at the bottom that shows thumbnails of other images in the same folder. It enables quick navigation between photos and provides a preview of what’s next without leaving the current image.
To stop Windows Photo Viewer from editing photos, simply avoid the “Edit” option and use the app solely for viewing. Navigate through your images without clicking on any editing tools. For added safety, consider using a dedicated photo viewer that focuses only on viewing.
