Thanks for the comments, Pinklet. I feel like I'm in the "Vertex Zone" as fine meshes (lots of polys) don't freak me out. I see it, much like Neo sees "code" in the Matrix. I"m modeling a cat next. Mateo Sancarlos -- Thanx squared for the tech info on making of the xmas films. I think that with the HDRI abilities that's coming in version 3, there may be a way to use GI and have those intense lights you described, and still have some interesting shadows.