To hoofdcommissaris: to call filters cheating relies greatly on the point of view. To term cheating, you are simply making things easier for yourself. Correct? So wouldn't you consider using the smudge tool or the dodge and blur tools in Photoshop, when you draw hair and clothing perhaps, be considered.......cheating? It is certainly easier than just using nothing but the airbrush (although it still takes lots of practice to perfect). Just like the filters, you must have a good knowledge ot the tool to use it PROPERLY! I will admit that I cannot use filters beyond the blur properly to save my life. How is it cheating if I don't know how to use them? Also, another thing to ponder. Some people consider some of the simplest works throughout history to be true masterpieces, when some of the most complex works are hardly recognized. As I said- point of view! But I do agree that people should not be left in the dark about how the artist achieves whatever look is in question. Let the viewer decide whether they think it cheating or not. Whether something is good or not, cheating or not, talented or not, pleasing or not, is all a point of view!! We can't go setting rules for creativity, now can we?! It is not a sport, but a passion: ...no matter how we achieve it!! Cheers, Dall

"I cannot escape from myself,
I am never alone!"
                -Jesse