I have always consider Poser closer akin to photography than to painting. When I started with Poser I had some familiarity with photography, but no background with painting (computer or otherwise). With Poser, I set up my scene like I would a photo shoot. I don't need to create my model, props, and such from scratch. These are simply elements that go into making the scene. How I arrange the figures and props, ligth the scene, and place the camera, etc., is what makes or breaks the picture. The fact that I use a filter to alter or enhance the natural sunlight or a certain lens or film speed to take the picture, is that cheating? But then there are those who do not consider Photography to be art. Anyone can buy a camera and take a picture. No talent needed. But to paint a picture and have it praised as a work of art. That takes talent, a refrigerator, some magnets, and a warm heart and lots of hugs and kisses to bestow on the artist! :O)