smashing guys, thanks for the tips! got it working as a diplacement, just one more thing how do I adjust the dismap? if I double click on its node to open a/e the box to change the level is set at 1.000 and I cant change it? I realise I can do this in photoshop by changing the variation in my grey tones but I wondered if there's a way to fine tune it in Maya

ps sorry to be such a noob, I always learn things faster when I actually work through projects rather than hunting through manuals ( although Maya's online help comes in v handy ) I've been designated 3D guy at work so i'm having to learn Maya while working on real projects... with real deadlines!

Thanks again for all your help