To be honest I really do rate Poser as a potentially pro tool with the arrival of 6. Yes, I know the interface is well, a pain at times, but Ive kinda got used to it after working with the prog since version 2. And I have worked professionally in that time as a 3D character artist along with using MAX and Lightwave too. My advice would definitely be to go for version 6... the lighting is awesome now!! I got the free copy of Shade 7 with version 6, but havent bothered using it as I`m well pleased with my Poser renders using AO and IBL. Poser Infinite... good title! a MAX-like interface would be enough ;-)