Apophysis is a piece of software that renders amazing Fractal images. Not tricky to learn at all, and basically comes with a thousands preset math mixes.

http://www.apophysis.org/

I have used this extensively especially for wonderful textures. It also renders the output as a layer, only allowing the workload to sit on  the useable layer else you can chose your own Backdrop.

It works with FLAME files. Many will be familiar with these but from my understanding the maths of a flame files coupled with a root algorythm!!! works together to create a kind of controllable Fractal output that defies description.

If you think this is one of those Paisley forever zooming in fractal things, well, think again. You CAN infinitely zoom in on the fractal output part but not to produce the old fashioned image we all recall.

Have a go. If youre really pushed Ill do a very quick Vid Tute on it because it IS easy and is IS exceptional.  Here's some I created last year but it only touches the tip of the iceberg.

Here are some of my works from last year. (Amazing what you find when youre weeding backup drives.)

And so it goes on. I hope they inspire but the software is a definite if you're looking for something diverse and that no one else will have. :) Armstrong.