Hi Dave,
Yes, slideshow is a basic script because, complete is often complex!
Weather by You! is trying to focus on beginers, so too much options is
not welcome. Cutting and sizing images are basic task that all webmasters
have to know... so a bit of practice!
For images, 1 thing, height is the key!
Large images are 400px height.
Thumbnails are 60px height.
Hope this help,
Regards,
Jacques