Best software solution to start with

[valo]

Hello everybody,

I am around for few years now, exclusively admiring your skills and imagination (I envy all of you btw). I work as a software developer but I want to learn some 3D modeling as a hobby, so I'd like to ask you which software solution should I start with? I've tried 3ds max years ago, all I can remember is that I got stuck in details. If anyone of you would have to start all over, what would you chose?

[SDA]

If I had to start all over again I would still chose the same packet of software, and deal with it all over again. So to answer your question. Maya is good packet for learning but I found it to be a little messy. I use 3Dmax and it is working pretty well, and unlike Mayas GUI it isn't messed up. That is what I use for modeling, but if you want to sculpt I suggest to use the Autodesk Mudbox. Im still learning this program, since it gives you almost complete freedom to sculpt anything.

It mostly depends on how your mind works. Rough comparison is like, if you're brain works on free form or cubic form. Both are good. If you're a cubic, you're gonna be very precise but will have less imagination and less randomness and creativity. That is partially how mine works. The free form is opposite, you have a vast number of shapes, objects and ideas in your head and you don't care for details.

So, generally I think 3Dmax and Mudbox is for you. Have fun, I hope I helped.
Cheers ;)

[valo]

Hi, SDA,

3ds max would have been my choice too I guess although I haven't tried anything else. Thank you for your suggestions and argumentation, it was very helpful.

I am a detail-oriented person and that's not always a good thing because sometimes I fail to see the big picture, but generally, I tend to be good at what I like to do even though I'm not really sure of how my mind works, the cubic way or the free way :) so I truly hope I'll be able to share my work with you all very soon.

Thanks again and Happy Holidays!

Daniel

[Moshie]

but if you want to sculpt I suggest to use the Autodesk Mudbox.

all about Z-brush for sculpting :P

and 3ds max is a superb package for modelling it takes a while to get used to all of the tools and functions but its incredibly worth it.