Drawing or comp imaging

[TheBB]

I got some experience with every single program mentioned in this thread, so I feel inclined to answer.

It is extremely hard to draw realistic scenes in 2D software such as PSP or PS. If you don't have previous experience already I'd suggest giving up.

It is also hard to produce good results with conventional free 3D software. Basically because you'd be stuck trying to model realistic humans which is really challenging. Poser is your prime best shot at ever getting a really good human character out, if you have little experience.

To finish off the rest of the scene you need a good allround 3D program. Best would be Maya or 3ds max. 3ds max is horribly expensive, I don't know about Maya. If you want to stick to freeware, POV-Ray may be your best shot, if you can keep your tounge straight. An awful lot of number crunching is required.

[j]

I think 3D Poser-like software is OK for people who want to visualize their own fantasies. But I usually find the results of such 'art' (however skilful) to be incredibly stiff-limbed, awkward, and lacking in the relevant kind of detail!

It is my custom to ornate all the stories I keep with art (at least one cover picture, sometimes much more). I never use photos or fakes for many reasons, and hardly ever use computer art. The old-fashioned artists - from Dolcett to Pichard - are much better: elegance, clarity, naughtiness, and the freedom to show things that would blow the tops off censors if shown in photos!

I cited elegance first - and that was not due to chance. It should be a prerequisite!

[new master]

My slave uses a program called 3d max 5 she down loaded a cracked copy and takes a free course online at 3dbuzz.com ( or something like that) shes pretty good at it and its a good program (pixar uses it) (retails for about $3000)