First of all, Thanks in Advance to anyone that can help me out with some input.

I am wanting to create a slideshow of photos. Patch this together with some captured video. Edit. Set the whole thing to music. Burn the result as VCD.

I have been reading other posts that deal with one or two of my steps and mention software such as SSMM and Ulead. My question to the experts is what is going to be the simplest and best way to get from A to B to C and ultimately to the final product. What software, formats, codecs etc... do you recommmend.

I have photos in jpg format, but could convert. I have video capture card and I believe I can get avi out of it. I have the music in mp3 and wav format. I just need to bring it all together.

My wife and I recently lost our dog and wanted to create this video memorial of him. I appreciate your time very much in reading this and responding.

Robert