Animating still photos - deadline for this project is Friday 7/14!! HELP!!

Question

I am working on a project and can't quite figure out the
details. I have 5 images with text included and I simply want to
have each image fade in and fade out to reveal the next image - I
was able to accomplish this by creating a layer for each image and
applying timeline effects. I have 2 questions: 1. How do I adjust
the timing of the fade in and fade out - I've tried manipulating
the effect duration and the ease but the images still switch too
quickly. 2. Can I apply both drop shadow effect and transition
effect to an image?

Answer 1

Here is what you need to do:
1) Have each image in a different layer
2) Have each image embedded in a movie clip (click image, hit
F8)
3) Click on the image, got to the properties panel, go to
filter options and create the drop shadow you want
4) In each layer you will have a total of 4 key frames:
- The first one in the layer, where you want the picture to
enter and the fade in to start
- A second one about 5-10 frames later
- A Third one, about 5-10 frames before the the picture is
over, and you want the fade out to start
- The last one, where the picture/fade ends
5) Once you have this setup, go to the first key frame where
the picture will appear. Click on the image, go to properties
panel, click on the "color" drop down box, and go to Alpha. Set the
alpha to 0%. Repeat process with the final keyframe.
6) Now, on your first and third key frames in that layer, add
"Motion Tween." Voila, fading picture.
7) Move the key frames in each layer around so that one layer
starts about 2-3 frames before the next one ends, and you will have
a nice a cross fade effect. If you want the fades to be
longer...add more frames after the first key frame, and before the
last one.
**Note: It is easiest to clear all previous key frames before
starting over when doing this...Otherwise you get inconsistencies
or really strange situations/animations.
Hope this helps!