I'm looking for recommendations for slideshow software. I've used Ulead DVD pictureshow in the past, but it doesn't seem to work with my new laptop (MS Vista).

A few criteria for the ideal software:

- Easy to use
- Fast
- Burns to either CD or DVD
- Works with still images and/or MPEG's together
- Lots of transition effects
- Lots of control, i.e. adding titles, descriptions
- Able to adjust timing of each individual slide
- Ability to layer music, and preferably adjust the timing of a series of images to "fit" the music automatically (instead of tinkering)
- Pre formatted templates

Any suggestions?

Thanks

I am using a shareware called XnView with XP. You can try it with Vista. It is fast, has a nice slideshow function including making an executable file, can read many formats.

You did't mention your budget.
At the entry level, there are some "free" apps that one can pull together a slide show with the features and attributes that you are looking for. However, they usually do not have DVD burning tools (but you should have that in your Vista already, I presume). Freebies like Picaso.
One other one comes to mind is Microsoft Photostory 3, which does come with DVD burner. I used it a year ago before I acquired Adobe Premiere Pro. It is free for download for registered Microsoft user.
If you want to have some editing and image enhancement capability, you might want to check out the Photoshop Elements 6 AND Premiere Elements 4 together. The latter is a video editor (including doing you fancy slide shows and burn CD and DVD). Check online for cost. May be able to download for a 30-day free trial (not sure about this).
If you want a pro-level workshop tool, then perhaps consider Adobe Premiere Pro

I've been pretty happy with the photo/video clip/background music shows I've been able to put together using Memories On TV.

http://www.codejam.com/

JR