copywrite infringement?
 

i am designing my new portfolio and was thinking of finding a really great pic of some chick and using illustrator to turn her into an illustration... my question is, is this considered copywrite infringement even though i wouldnt be using the unlicensed photo itself? if anyone knows what i'm talking about let me know. thanks!! :)

that would fall under 'Derivative Works' and yes... that's verbotten.

I'd say that such a derivative work is covered by fair use, as long as you are creating a distinct work of art and not just a copy.