There are several alternatives.
1. If you have Adobe Photoshop Version 6 or higher, this is best. Be sure to save the picture under a different file name, so that you don't lose the original. Under "Image," choose "Mode" and then "RGB." If you reduce the size of the image (using "Image" and "Image Size"), you will probably need to sharpen the result with the filter known as "Unsharp Mask." Then go to "File" and "Save for Web." In the tabs on the upper left, choose 2-up or 4-up. Note the weight of each option in kilobytes (we need it to be less than 500). For most pictures, you can choose the "Maximum" setting (on the right) and it will still be well under 500 kb. Click OK and save the file under a new name. Send this to us along with your comment.
2. If you have Microsoft Office, and if you installed "Microsoft Photo Editor" when you did the Office set-up, then double-click on the icon of the photograph and it will probably open in "Microsoft Photo Editor." (The latter can also be accessed through "Start," "Programs," "Microsoft Office Tools.") In "Microsoft Photo Editor," go to "File" and choose "Properties." In the pop-up window you can see, on the right, the weight of the file in bytes (500,000 bytes = 500 kilobytes). We need your picture at no more than 500 kilobytes. Reducing the size will lower the weight. If it is necessary to do this, first go to "File" and save the picture under a new name. Then go back to "File" and "Properties." Set the resolution at 100 pixels/inch and click OK. In the main window, click on "Image," "Resize." Under "Units" choose "Pixels." Between the figures for "Height" and "Width," choose the higher and bring it down to 500. Click OK. In the toolbar on top, choose 100% in order to view the picture at its current size. If it seems blurry (and it probably will), go to "Tools" and click on "Sharpen." Now return to "File" and "Properties" and check the weight. You may have to go through the process a few more times to get it down to 500 kilobytes. If at any stage you want to start over, you can go to "File" and "Revert." Once you have succeeded - and if you still like the picture - save it and send it to us . If you feel that the picture has lost too much, you might seek help from a friend with Adobe Photoshop.
3. [Instructions for Macintosh, yet to be written]