There's a full series on C6 at Lynda.com

also as they say "what happens in Carrara stays in Carrara". You won't be able to export anything that is dynamic from carrara to be used in any other program. Also the UV map is weird. In the latest edition there is an option (or add-on) that allows you to export files to better interchange with other programs. Also in the latest edition a lot of the Daz3d content can be imported and used quite well. C8 is a definite leap ahead as far as program capabilities.

That said. I'm learning Blender (free) for main modeling and ZBrush for more sculptural work.

I've dabbled in a ton of different 3d programs. SO If you let me know your goals, I can help direct you better.

Jade

thanks for the input. as for goals with 3d, i would like to get better at modeling, lighting, and building scenes. eventually i would love to learn camera control and animation but i want to get better at the basics i guess.

are 3d studiomax and maya fairly easy to use if you already have minor experience with 3d programs?

The basics do translate between program to program. The object mesh, nurbs, subdivsion, maps, lighting and cameras all have similar ties in each program. Zbrush and Modo have other sculpting tools that assist in model creation that other programs do not.

Other programs where creating environments, landscape, skys etc are their specialty are Vue, Carrara, Bryce, etc. The other programs can also be used as a background creator, but you would have to do more hands on than those programs that auto generate.


The tools to create the object vary by program. Creating in 3d is really all about finding the program that fits your goals and workflow.

3dMax has all that you want to do and more. I have 3dsmax 8. However, many find the program to be too much to take on. Lynda.com also has a series on it.

Actually you may want to start at lynda.com and look at the 3d programs through their tutorials to see which you would feel most comfortable before spending any money or time. There's Maya, Carrara, 3dmax, Google Sketchup on there.

Also look into Modo, zbrush, and Blender for modeling options.

Another forum/site to check out if you are real serious would be http://www.cgsociety.org/

Tutorials can also be found through the magazine 3dworld, and Imagefx (both by the same publisher) I like 3D World magazine over the other as the industry insite, and tutorials are really good. Also the resource CD that comes with the magazine is spot on.


Kinda rambled on there, but hopefully you can pick out what works for you.

Jade