Well, for this you definitely need 3D software... I myself am a Lightwave-freak, so I know how to do it using LW, but any 3D program could get the job done... For lightwave I'd sugest either two aproaches; -either create a simple surface (a 4 point polygon), convert the first pic you've posted into a black and white pic (using photoshop or any other 2D program that can do so) and ad this pic as a bump map into surface editor. -Or, create a 4 point poly with enough segments, use the magnet tool to raise the points or polys you've selected and create your elevations, then use Smoothshift to ad the detail. There is a program called Terragen that is specifically used for creating landscapes, much like the one you need, so maybe try the gallery and see who you want to contact by Instant messaging... Good luck, Mike

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