LaurieA, I always had trouble with getting a more realistic look until I started working here with the Antonia group.
But they are always giving tips and ideas, and, bagginsbill drops in and offers his ideas.
With his vss and good lighting the textures look wayyyy better. :)

Let me introduce you to my multiple personalities. :)
     BluEcho...Faery_Light...Faery_Souls.