Quote - The biggest difference between Poser 7 and the current version is weightmapping, which affects how rigging is done, and most importantly, lighting, which is much less complicated in newer versions as it behaves more like real lights (also the Poser Library is set up differently, but that doesn't really affect the function). 

Also, the newest versions no longer include the tutorials, so your approach sounds like a good one, keeping in mind that you will need to relearn a few things down the road.

Also, make sure you have SR3 installed...

http://poser.smithmicro.com/poser7updates.html

Quote - Agreed.  Taking time to famiiarize yourself with each aspect will make you more adept and comfortable with the application.  However, we're talking about P7.  I will suggest that if you are seriously considering pursuing Poser, upgrade ASAP to either Poser 10 or Poser Pro 2014.  The technology has changed dramatically, and whatever you learn now will need to be relearned later.

So, in nut a shell, are the later editions more complex as far as user friendliness?

•Do they require a higher end machine?

•Will I be able to import all my designs that I've made and the characters, props, etc. I've downloaded? 

•I've manually installed everything I've downloaded. Is there a different process for this in poser 10 and 2014?

Thanks for the feedback.