BMP tracing - an easier way?

I've been using the 'trace bitmap' feature in flash to create vector art out of photographs for years... but lately I've noticed an increase in the amount of really awesome looking photo-based cartoons (check out HER icon). Anyhow, bitmap tracing takes ages to tweak into something decent... and this recent influx makes me think there's got to be an easier way! Perhaps there's a different application for this specific type of art?

X-posted, sorry kids!