Quote - Hi,
        I've just gotten poser 8 as a gift, and have no prior knowledge in this area of graphics design. Does anyone have some tips as far as:
What free downloads I should get first? Essentials, as such.
How did you learn most? Just by experimenting? Any essential tutorials?
Will I need any other programs to use in conjunction with poser, as far as eventually creating my own clothing etc.?

Thank you for answering and I hope I'm asking in the correct place.

You dont need any freebies yet,everthing you need for now is there
Just get your  boots wet and jump right in,youll need a paint program one could be Adobe but there are loads out there.You should with out doubt read the manual.Tutorials are all around you on the web,just type into Google "Poser tutorials" and youve got a wealth of information at your finger tips.
Dont forget the forum here everyone will try ot help you out so dont be afraid to ask even the most basic question.Have a look at the poser forum rules so you wont slip up as  I did once

And most of all enjoy!