First off, I found this side of the I-works finally (just looking around... wow, never know what you might find [img]smile.gif[/img] )

Anyhow, Being that I dunno anything about 3D modeling and art, I was going to ask the basic question.
What programs do ppl use (how 2 get them, what cost (I would prefer free, but still a good program))

Once I get situated with tha 'puter and get a 3D program, then I'm sure to have more questions...

SilentThief

Gmax is free, but I find it impossible to use. But, mind you, it has been used to create awesome stuff, and I'm not exactly what you would call great at this stuff! ;)
You can download it here. [img]smile.gif[/img]

oh..well there's always Blender, google search should get you the link ^_^;;

3D modeling? I use Amapi, which is free and there's also Caligari. Art? I use Photoshop, which is very expensive, you could try GIMP or Fireworks which are also quite popular. GIMP, is free, while Fireworks isn't too expensive.

[ 12-20-2004, 11:38 AM: Message edited by: Blunderbuss ]

bryce 5 is down to $80! that does awesome landscapes. i use fireworks and adobe illustrator regularly, sltho i don't do 3d.

Yup, you should go with Bryce if you want the great looking 3D stuff ;)

crossing my fingers and hoping we might have enough after taxes to get bryce!

But if you want to make the amazing professional stuff, then you will need 3D Studio max, or Maya, and if you are going that way, then you will need about $5000 to pay for one of them, unless you do something naughty.......

Something naughty??? SHAME ON YOU HIVETYRANT!!! (LOL) Anyhow, there's a FREE program out there called DAZ Studio, and me and manikus have been discussing making 3D images for DC with that. Sadly, we know almost nothing of making 3D images (he's done a bit o' stuff, and I've just cracked open the program and its tutorial for the first time...)

But this post here is a reply to my own question of where to get a free 3D program, so if anyone is curious or interested in this program, google it and you'll find it (DAZ Studio). ;)

SilentThief
PS, now the flood of questions will come (how do I do this... how do I do that...)

Did I hear my name? :D
I thought I'd drop a line about a couple of other FREE 3d programs.
Anim8or- http://www.anim8or.com/ (I haven't tried this one yet)
Wings3D- http://www.wings3d.com/ (This runs really slow on my computer, so I don't use it.)
Milkshape 3D- http://www.swissquake.ch/chumbalum-soft/ (This one is shareware- free for 30 days then $20 USD to register. I think this program rocks! The only drawback is that it is low polygon only so anything over 25k polies isn't going to load.)

I have gmax as well, but have a hard time doing anything with it.

-manikus