Until a certain number of posts (I am not sure how many ... 50 maybe?) any posts with lots of pictures and/or links are put into moderation to be approved before posting. This is to protect us from spammers - the mods actively check any moderated posts and approve them many times a day. I just caught one from you and approved it.
As for posting the pictures directly in the post, when you upload the picture to Image Shack, it will give you a list of different code options - if you copy and paste the "Forum" one into a post, it will show it here on JM.
I hope that helps! There are no stupid questions and we'll be glad to help with any others you have