sparker2, you could create a new directory...
skin/smart_template/custom/images
Upload your slider images there.
Then use...
<a href="product.php?productid=257"><img src="{$AltSkinDir}/custom/images/slider/image_1.jpg" alt="" title="" /></a>
<a href="product.php?productid=258"><img src="{$AltSkinDir}/custom/images/slider/image_2.jpg" alt="" title="" /></a>
etc.
v4.4.4 is released today, so I will be testing the template ASAP... Updates are free as always.
I'm also launching a
brand new template shortly, with many more features.
It was due out in August, but I have decided it was best to wait for v4.4.4.