subject: The 3D software packages [print this page] The 3D software packages The 3D software packages
A 3D software allows to use creation instruments, manipulation and final visualization of the 3D environment built.
There are many software packages with different features in the market; for this reason, we would need long time to speak about every single software. However, we can say that It's not important what software you use; a good rendering depends on skills and knowledge of the 3D artist.
We can divide software packages in two main categories, "complete packages" and "finalized software packages"; let's analyze them in details.
Complete packages
These software offer a range of tools to develop the four processes involved in the production of a 3D work, such as modelling, texturing, lighting and rendering.
The main software used in the 3D field are:
- Autodesk Maya (used by the most important 3D animation studios)
- Autodesk 3D Studio Max (widespread in the field of architecture)
They take a large part of the market, but during the time other good competitors have affirmed themselves, for example: Softimage XSI, Blender (free software), Cinema 4D, Houdini , Lightwave, Modo.
Finalized software packages
They complete and extend some processes concerning the develop of the 3D. In particular, they complete modelling and rendering.
Concerning the modelling, we can mention:
- Autodesk Mudbox
- Pixologic Zbrush
- Rhinoceros
In the rendering, instead:
- Brazil
- Fryrender
- Maxwell render
- Mental ray
- Renderman
- Vray
The price of the different packages is very expensive because of the several years of study for its develop, many employees involved and a continuos and constant research in the field. Anyway, the software houses allow to take free versions just for 30 days. In this way, It's possible to value the software and move first steps to learn the software choosen.
