No one is forcing anyone to use the latest version of Poser, the latest version of Vicki, to change their rendering techniques, their workflow or anything else.  If a user doesn't think gamma correction is needed, they have the option to turn it off.  If they want to render a figure without shadows or even clothing and hair, they have the option.  If a user's can post work whatever they need into a render, then they should.  That's why there are apps like Gimp, PS and Painter. 

You don't even have to own any version of Poser over P7 to use the majority of content available here and at RDNA.  Yes, there are some products that make use of P9 and up features or other apps features but no one is forced to buy or use them.  I keep older version of Poser on my system so that I can continue to use certain scripts that don't have equivalents or work on newer versions.

I have Pro 2014 because I wanted the fitting room and some of the other features.  If you are happy with the tool set for an older version of Poser then stick with it. 

Skip worrying about what other users are doing and saying.  The only thing that matters is that the person doing the render is happy with the results.  No matter what someone does, someone will have a negative comment.

Just pay a visit to CG Society and tell them you use Poser.  They can be a truly condescending lot.

Unless, for some reason, photo realism is needed for a job, stop letting others dictate.  Life is way too short to spend it trying to make everyone else happy.