@Nils, when you say edit the normals in your 3D application, what do you mean exactly? How do you do it in Max or another 3d app? Can the technique be used for hair and palm fronds etc? I have the same issue with several textures where transparent z-write looks so much better and realistic but the water in the background messes it up. Also, with transparent z-write on, my palm fronds don't drop shadows. Is there a fix for that?