Tips and Help Need

[Zoldik]

hi, i just stumbled into this website and is very interested in this 3d character design subject.

what programs do u guys use?

where do i start?

who are your role models in this industry?

thank you for your time!

[cookepuss]

hi, i just stumbled into this website and is very interested in this 3d character design subject.
where do i start?
- Start small, with inorganic objects first they're easier if you've never done 3D before.
- Take time to learn the 3D toolset of your chosen app.
- Respect the critiques of those around you and know that even when it hurts it's probably for your own good.
- Practice Practice Practice
- Tutorials and training materials are everywhere. Good places to start would be: www.3dtotal.com, www.gnomonology.com, www.cgarena.com, www.poopinmymouth.com, & www.bakaneko.com/howto/computer/3d/character/page01.html
- Ask questions. Lots of them

what programs do u guys use?
Depends on the person, industry, and the job/task. Lots people here use 3dsmax or Maya. Some also use XSI or LightWave. I use Cinema4D.

My "weapons of choice" are Maxon Cinema4D Studio r11, ZBrush 3.1, PhotoShop CS4, & Roadkill.

Just be aware that 3d software is NOT cheap. I spent $3k+ on Cinema4D alone. As a newbie, you might want to start of with Blender3D (@ www.blender.org) instead. It's 100% free and crazy powerful, especially for the price.

who are your role models in this industry?
I usually go for the classics, which extend over a range of fields: Stan Winston, Ray Harryhausen, Chuck Jones, Tex Avery, John Romita Jr, Alex Ross, Bob McLeod, & Shigeru Miyamoto.