>2. What would be the advantage of buying a point and shoot over an SLR?
>The point here is the price. I guess I could ask what are the advantages
>of an SLR over a point and shoot? Do I really need all that stuff?

An SLR can provide more control over the image making, and has greater versatility (interchangeable lenses, ability to do macro, etc.). An SLR
system can be very stripped-down, and cheap (buying used, and buying older
models [often better], maybe non-AF [often better], are ways to keep price
and complications down). No, you don't need all that stuff the manufacturers
load up their current SLR's with. I find much of it just gets in the way.