Overview

Grouper was created to simplify the process of importing Poser generated models into Bryce. It works equally well with other modeling applications that can generate .OBJ files and other rendering applications the can import files in that format.

What does it do, exactly?

Grouper does not change the geometry of the model in any way. It does simplify the model by combining objects the have the same or similar material definitions into more convenient groups to improve your workflow.

What can't it do?

Grouper uses only the information passed to it in the .OBJ and .MTL file formats. While these formats specify most of the common martial channels, they do not address transparency maps. Grouper can simplify your .OBJ files and improve your workflow but you must still manually adjust the material specifications in your rendering application for transparency mapped objects.

Poser has a rendering engine,  why bother?

Other applications have better render engines. For example, Bryce has an exceptional procedural material model and natural terrain features and Carrara's rendering engine includes global illumination effects. None of these features are easily reproduced with Poser's rendering engine.

Also, the figures you create may not be the focus of your finished piece. In many cases you'll want to use Poser figures to enhance your scene in most cases they are not the center of attention.