Release?

This is kind of a dumb question but, do you like the automatic release better or the crest release?
And why?

Depends on the horse, the situation, the ride, the course, and the jump (and the upcoming jump).

If the horse is forward, or I need to make a sharp turn or have a very technical ride/jump/course I prefer automatic. If the horse is a little sticky to the jumps, hesitant, or if it's the end of a course, or where I need to add in speed, I prefer crest so I can release bigger and really encourage the horse to go.

That's just one example of which one I prefer where and why. There's a lot that goes into it - such as how my horse is approaching, how much whoa v. Go I need, and how technical the jump is, whether it's on a fox hunt, a pace, an event, a jumper round, or a hunter round, etc.

So, if you were going to a simple in and out of like 1' to a 1'6" would you use a crest release?

Until you are jumping with a solid position, you should ALWAYS use a crest release. If you are jumping just 12" - 18" there is no need for an automatic release.

For a simple in and out of let's say 3', the answer to that question remains - what is my approach like, how is my horse going, do I need added control for speed, jump size/height/width, what's the next jump AFTER the in and out and where is it placed, what is THAT approach like, and how much communication and control do I need?

Ahh, okay (: Thanks for the input.
I kind used to "accidentally" automatic releases, it was NOT pretty >.>

I hear you. The automatic release can be very handy, but is also very technical and requires an independent hand meaning that your seat and foundation need to be SOLID SOLID SOLID. Otherwise the result can be getting left behind, catching the horse in the mouth, falling off...etc.

Yeah. I'm so annoyed that I don't have enough money for lessons.
I love jumping, but I don't want to let myself get into any bad habits

Save up, or look for a work-for-lessons type of program. Some barns (like I do here) will allow students to work off all or part of their lessons by doing barnwork and what not.

Too bad you're not closer to me! I'm about an hour from you

That would be sooo awesome!
My instructor isn't like that though, except with camp. Maybe she'll give me a few lessons