Frankly I get pretty excited when one of my graphics hits 100 hits. I have no idea who looks once I run out of friends, but it's nice to know that some people do (even if it's just to be kind), knowing they wouldn't find a Vicky or Mike lounging nude in one of my temples.

Anyway, I'm like other people here. I download when I see something I like because I don't know how long it will be there. Maybe someday I'll use it in a graphic. Or not. I don't download everything. I just like to have some props and textures on hand. I credit the artists when I can but some don't have any identification inside the zip file and I can't remember who or where I got what when I go to use it weeks later. Since each graphic can take up to 15 or more props and textures from different people, I don't mind crediting each and everyone on the graphic but I don't see any way I can efficiently notify everyone I downloaded stuff from. Many times I don't have a way of reaching them because (hint, hint) they don't put any identification inside their zip file. :(

I have been assuming, given my limited abilities and the modest hit rate of my graphics, that no one would be particularly flattered that I used their items in my stuff. I always acknowledge that my graphics are a collaboration rather than my own creation, but I don't know if my unknown co-conspirators really want to know to what use I put their items, and this does seem to vary wildly among you. Would you rather a 50 hit graphic done with good will but limited talent have your prop used in it, or would you rather see it in a 2000 hit Vicky in the temple? Or does it matter to you?

I am thankful to all of you who do provide the props, textures, etc. because I can't create them on my own and I am (shades of "A Streetcar Named Desire") dependent on the kindness of strangers.