So what is the bump map bit depth in Poser? Seem like it's not very good, maybe only 8 bit? Anyone know? Thanks Spike

Most bumpmaps I've seen in other programs are 8bit so I'd imagine this one's the same. Bumpmaps are, after all, greyscale.

Yeah, I know, I brought a model into Poser and it does not pick up the bump that good. It can't see the fine grey changes. I did this test with a 4000 X 4000 image and it still won't see them. I need to do the same test in a few more apps and see.

For optimum bump-mapping, consider using a different map depending on the closeness of the object being rendered. For a person, in poser, a different map should be used for close-up and distant renders. If you notice little effect from gray-to-gray in your bump-maps, increase the contrast in the bump map to bring out the bumps more. Bump maps are also pixel averaged, like textures, so their effect is often diminished at long distances.

ok, just my imagination -or- is some level of "Highlight" value also required for the bump map effect to show up? Been running into this for some time but never bothered to actually test it out. If so, it seems this precludes bump mapping transmapped objects which require zero highlight value on the transparent areas. Self-evident to everyone else? Or did I just sleep through that lecture in TransMapping-101?

Bumpmapping should not rely on any highlight value, however, since the most noticeable effects of subtle bumpmapping (such as skin textures) as seen when highlights cross the bumped region. But bumpmapping certainly works exclusive of any lighting requirements.