A better "Cut Out" Filter??

[graphicgirl]

I am trying to convert photographs into art that I can color vectorize, in order to cut on a cutting plotter - I've experimented with the "Cut Out" filter but it doesn't give me as much control as I would like... Does anyone know of a third party plug in that would give me better results?
Thanks

 

[sdraper]

Try experimenting with levels and/or posterize. They can be found under Image>adjust. Try them alone and together in different order. You can get some pretty nifty effects that way. Experiement and have fun!!
hope this helps,
sdraper