Quote - This thread has been an interesting read for me.  I've recently come back to an old copy of Poser 6 I had and am relearning how it works (planning to upgrade to Poser Pro eventually).  While I want to do some photorealistic renders, in part just because right now I don't believe I have the skill level to do so and want to have that in my "bag" so to speak; I'm also interested in more artistic images that are closer to paintings in their final finish.  In particular I like the luminous qualities of old oil paintings.  I think they have a warmth that is very appealing.  I'm far from duplicating that in my own images, and reading what I can find to help me along (not to mention 3 books I had on Poser 6).  Its good to know there are others who both enjoy that kind of style.  Gives me something else to aim for.

Welcome back.
Can't help ya with Realism.

If some one wanted me to make a render look like a old oil painting.

For special effects there's a lot of App's that can help.
Not saying you would need all these just bringing them to your attention.

Haven't use these.
Photoshop ,Filter forge.

Never tryed it but
Blender has some cool looking shaders.

zBrush has some killer shaders ,noise etc etc.
Topaz Laps some work with infanview.

Gimp.

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The Artist that will fight for decades to conquer their media.
Even if you never know their name ,your know their Art.
Dark Sphere Mage Vengeance