No one can deny the impact that 3D animation software has had on numerous industries worldwide, and how its advancement moves at a pace that even some animators struggle to keep up with. Even still, 3D graphics have become one of the most popular studies and most sought-after career fields among young artists. When most people think of 3D animation, they think of big screen pictures with computer graphics (CG) effects or fully 3D animated kids' films. Yet, it doesn't take much effort to find 3D animation in other industries. Companies can use 3D animation for any number of reasons: company logos, commercials, architectural layouts, demonstrations, and so much more. Depending on the software, CG can encompass character elements, object elements, environments, or all of the above. The graphics animation software market is huge, including all types of computer programs at every level and price range. Because of this, comparisons can be difficult to make. The key is determining which program meets the needs of each unique user.
The 3D animation software market can generally be broken down into three levels: beginner, intermediate, and advanced. Users who have little to no experience with 3D animation whatsoever will want to purchase a program at the beginner level. These programs tend to be less complicated in their functions but also have fewer features than the more advanced alternatives. Intermediate users might have two or three years of experience on a beginner level program or feel like they've mastered it. When an animator gets bored with one program, it's a good sign to move on to something more challenging. Advanced level programs are meant for animators with several years of experience and a broad knowledge of linear and non-linear concepts tied to generating images. Graphics animation software at this level includes more complex features and concepts which tend to produce more life-like animations. While a beginner can tackle an advanced program, it could be a little discouraging without the aid of an instructor or video tutorial. "Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning" (Proverbs 9:9). It's always recommended that a beginner start with the basics and work her way up.
Choosing the right graphics animation software also has a lot to do with what the user plans to do with it. Some software is designed specifically for creating environments such as buildings, parks, and cityscapes. Other computer programs are designed to create characters or just faces specifically. Most advanced programs will encompass several of these abilities. Along with abilities, the user has to consider quality of the end result. How realistic does the animation need to look? In the entertainment industry, blending live action and CG effects requires that the animation look extremely life-like. Other businesses may just use the CG effects for a marketing mascot or company logo animation. In these cases, the end result needs to just look smooth and appealing to the eye. The good news is that whether a program is meant for beginners or advanced users, most software has the capability of creating pretty impressive animations. A user who masters a beginner level program could create something just as striking as an animator on an advanced level product. Plenty of practice and use of all available features can create mind-blowing effects. Shoppers should take a look at quality examples of animations which can often be viewed on software manufacturer's websites.
The price of 3D animation software is usually the next most important factor in choosing the best product. As mentioned earlier, the price range is wide. Basic programs can cost as little as $30 to $50 while more advanced programs can run between $1,000 and $2,000. Animators also must realize that the price of the software may not be the only cost to consider. Some software, especially the most expensive and advanced products, have some major system requirements. Purchasing an advanced program might require a whole new computer just to run it. A high-quality graphics card and processor is a must for these programs. It's best to look online for the system requirements attached to each product. If any of the user's system requirements fall short, rendering animations and just using the program will be slow and tedious. Add the cost of upgrading the computer to the cost of the program itself for price comparison purposes.
Whether the shopper is a first-time buyer or an experienced animator, finding the right graphics animation software can be much easier by using the Internet. Shoppers can use price comparison websites and customer reviews to help make the right decision. Online magazines often compare the major manufacturers in a fair and insightful way. The most important web tools for making the choice, though, are the manufacturers' websites. Always take a look at the information posted on these sites and explore the demos available. When making the actual purchase, shoppers need to be sure that the seller is reputable. For advanced programs near or above $1,000, it's wise to look at the manufacturer's website for a list of recommended merchants. For basic programs that cost less than several hundred dollars, shoppers can check on seller reputability by looking for store reviews. If purchasing the 3D animation software from an auction site, the seller will typically have a rating with negative and positive feedback posted. Make sure the seller has a clear return policy should the product be defective in any way.
