i get what you're saying, for the most part.

but, isn't that why there are multiple versions of poser? 

I really have no sympathy for a merchant who isn't willing to invest in or learn other tools that will improve the quality of the content they're creating. Nor do I have much sympathy for an artist who doesn't want to learn new tools to improve the quality of their art, if that's what it takes. If the only artist's application your machine can handle is windows paint, then find a way to make your windows paint painting awesome, or find another hobby.

Technically, if you have photoshop cs3 or later, then you have 3D painting software. granted, it's not the most user friendly, but it's there. If it's not good enough, invest the $600 bucks in zbrush, or another 3D painting application that does the job more efficiently. And, don't forget Blender also has fully functional 3D painting capabilities, and its free. 

so, are you saying you think it's a BAD idea for SM to try to market to a more professional-minded consumer base, out of some kind of loyalty to the hobbyist market? A hobbyist market who, don't forget, wants more professional quality content in their software to acheive more professional quality renders. 

Why does, or should, poser need to remain a hobbyist's tool? Why can't they accomodate both? Seems to me that's why they have Debut, standard, and pro versions. 

 

~Shane