Usage Guide

This guide covers the core functionalities of lightGallery Desktop and how to use them effectively.

Opening Images

There are several ways to open your images and folders:

  • Drag and Drop: The simplest method. Drag files or folders directly onto the application window at any time.
  • File > Open: Use the application menu to open a file dialog where you can select one or more image files (.jpg, .png, .gif, .webp).
  • File > Open Directory: Use the menu to select a folder. The application will load all supported images from that directory.

lightGallery Desktop provides multiple intuitive ways to browse your photos:

  • Keyboard Shortcuts: Use the Left Arrow and Right Arrow keys to move to the previous or next slide.
  • Mouse Controls:
    • Click and drag the current image to slide between photos.
    • Use the mouse wheel to cycle through the gallery.
    • Click the navigational arrows that appear on the left and right edges of the image.
  • Thumbnails: Click on any thumbnail in the bottom strip to instantly jump to that image.

Core Features Control

All major features are controlled through the application's top menu bar. Here you can customize the viewing experience to your liking.

  • View: Change the transition animation and easing effects between slides.
  • Thumbnail: Toggle thumbnail visibility, change their size, and adjust animation settings.
  • Autoplay: Enable or disable the automatic slideshow, set the pause duration, and toggle the progress bar.
  • Settings: Control general behaviors like looping, keyboard navigation, zoom levels, and mouse drag sensitivity.

For a complete list of all available options, refer to the Configuration documentation.