The distinction is that you are using PSP to modify the appearence of your fractal - NOT as a MEDIUM to generate extra parts of the image. The same would apply for Photoshop filters and sharpeners. The base of the image is the fractal and then one does creative things to it to make a piece of art. I don't think that the things you are speaking of violate the rules as they are written. Using PSP to layer the image isn't a violation, either, for the same reason - its not being used as a MEDIUM to make anything EXTRA, just to layer the fractals you have generated with whatever fractal program. The only thing I think violates the rules is to GENERATE a picture or form for a separate, added layer using a non-fractal medium/program. So I don't think we are disagreeing. Thank you for the welcome, Valcali - there is fantastic art here and I'm going to feel outclassed but I'll get up the nerve, soon. I hope that I haven't peeved anyone; I'm just stating opinions and trying to figure out what the limits are and assume that is the reason for this forum?