- numbers on display

What is the negative number I see in the upper left hand corner of my display when I try to take pictures? The picture still takes, but it's be nice to know what that means....

That number indicates what your exposure is. A negative number means you are underexposing your shot. In most cases you want that number close to zero. Have you read your manual yet? That is a very good learning tool. Also this link should help you with your camera as well. http://web.canon.jp/Im​aging/pss2is/101-e.html
When I first got my camera I bought a book that explained aperature, exposure, etc and I found that very helpful.

Thanks! I am waiting for photography books from the library, I have my manual and keep it close it hand, but I missed that part...scurries off to find it again...I've only had the camera a week and a half, this is a lot of info to get. Tonight I am going to try shooting MGM's Fantasmic! and Spectacle of Lights.

I know what you mean by it being a bit overwhelming. I've had my S2 since April and I'm still learning a lot. Have fun!