Hello Mark & Jim,
VS3D can generate G-code directly from image files with no vectorization required. In VS3D, the surface heights (Z axis) are automatically scaled directly from the gray-scale (or color) values in the imported image. VS3D also supports DXF, STL, and point clouds.
In addition, VS3D excells at Virtual Sculpting by providing sophisticated tools for hammering, scraping, chiseling, ramping, smoothing, etc.
VS3D supports roughing and finishing tool paths. All of the 3D tool offset calculations are performed automatically, based upon the 3D shape of the chosen cutting bit and the surface being cut.
Proposed cutting passes are shown on the shaded surface display. You can see exactly what the part will look like after the roughing and finishing passes.
Here is an example of a VS3D design machined in brass:
http://www.designscomputed.com/vs3d/examples/index.html