Painter is a wonderful and unique program. And the most user surly interface I have encountered until I met 3dStudioMax. sigh I used the first version (beta code even) a million years ago when it belonged to Fractal Design. Then that turned into Metacreations who flogged it off to Corel who bumped it down to their subdivision. Poor program :) The idea behind Painter is that it is a 'real media' simulator. Where photoshop starts from the viewpoint of a photographer and photograph editor, Painter starts from the viewpoint of a fine artist. Mind you, it does many things that can't be done in RL, but the language and tools are named for traditional artists tools. If you make original artwork digitally, or make textures you should consider learning Painter - but be warned its not for everyone and usually takes a long time to master. I've concentrated more on Pshop in the last few years, so I'm a little behind in Painter. Good luck :) BTW I used to sell software, and am now a graphics apps trainer - you can tell by the instant lectures - sorry :) Lyrra