Thanks everyone. I'll try it out. The screen grab is especially helpful thanks Tony!

Joel

Thanks how do I make a specular map that gives that glossy shine?

Thanks again. you're all great!

Lots to go on thanks to all. I'll let you all know how it goes.

can I get a link to the uv mapping program?

thanks bf

thanks!

when I check properties it say "poser executable files".
the way I saved them was, for example I pulled up V4 and then superimposed one of the figures I purchased off Renderosity. I would try mats from other figures or morphs to create something a little different. I would then save the result in a newly created file I had added to the library in the character section. I had the option to save under pose, lights, prop etc.

when I try to do file open in those folders nothing appears in the field unless I select "all files"
then all of the character files in the folder appear. I cannot open them.

I may try to load the same figures from Poser 6 again in Poser 8 and see if it works that way.
maybe it won't work unless I have the stuff I used initially to create it.

These folders in question are storage folders I created. they contain morphs I've tinkered with
and figures saved with new mats on them. I saved them in a separate folder that I added to P6.
I am trying to access that folder to see if I can bring them up in P8.
do I have to save the figure as a scene? I worked really hard on adjusting a morph to be just the way I like it. don't want to lose it.

@Dr Geep that was the first thing I tried.  I'll try again.

I tried to add the folder, but I got a message saying it was not a "runtime folder".

what of Runtime DNA's terra dome? does that solve the IDL question?
I am curious about the program. I do want realism in my renders.
this debate is actually exiting. so much information. thanks.

so my poser 6 renders will still load and I'm guessing improve in poser pro or poser 8. 
Thanks to everyone for the help.  nice to know there are so many knowledgeable people out there willing to help.

wow. I'd like to thank everyone who replied to my question. you've all given me lots to think about. lots of pros and cons. I like the wealth of knowledge this forum provides.
I have to add this question. can scenes and saved figures done in poser 6 be rendered / imported into poser pro or poser 8?