Software Packages
Getting started in 3D (and experimenting with posing, rendering, and animation) is usually far more accessible than most people expect. There are plenty of free or low-cost tools and resources available to help you figure out whether 3D is something you’ll enjoy.
Daz Studio
A free 3D creation application used to build, pose, animate, and render digital human figures and scenes.
At its core, it lets you:
- Load highly detailed 3D characters (humans, creatures, animals)
- Pose them using an intuitive bone-based rig system
- Apply clothing, hair, props, and environments
- Light the scene and render photorealistic images or animations
Daz Studio is especially well known for its Genesis figure system, where characters, clothing, and morphs are designed to work together across generations. Artists can customize body shapes, faces, expressions, and materials without needing to model from scratch.
It’s widely used for:
- Character illustration and concept art
- Product visualization and promotional renders
- Animation and previs
- Reference imagery for artists and designers
While beginners can get good results quickly, Daz Studio also supports advanced workflows—custom shaders, high-resolution textures, subdivision, morph creation, and integration with other 3D tools—making it useful in professional pipelines as well.
Blender
A free, open-source 3D creation suite used for modeling, sculpting, animation, simulation, rendering, and visual effects.
At its core, it lets you:
- Create and edit 3D models using polygon modeling and sculpting tools
- Rig and animate characters, objects, and cameras
- Simulate physics such as cloth, fluids, smoke, fire, and rigid bodies
- Light scenes and render images or animations using real-time or photorealistic render engines
Blender is known for being an all-in-one pipeline, covering the entire 3D workflow in a single application. Artists can move seamlessly from modeling to texturing, animation, rendering, compositing, and even video editing without leaving the software.
It’s widely used for:
- 3D animation and short films
- Game asset creation
- Visual effects and motion graphics
- Product visualization and concept art
Blender supports advanced workflows such as node-based materials and compositing, procedural geometry, Python scripting, add-on development, and industry-standard file formats, making it suitable for both independent artists and professional production environments.
Online Communities
There are many online communities with helpful members eager to share knowledge, tips, and artwork. Different communities have different vibes - browse around and find the one that fits you best.