Rendering Software

[tsquared38016]

Is there and easy to use software for doing renderings? Preferably a free one from Cnet or Download.com.

[Hdesign]

Renderings, 3D CAD models or Photo manipulation?

Short answer:
Yes, there is software available that can find/download to get you started in either of these. I'm sure someone can jump in with some links.

Adobe Photoshop is a must and Adobe Illustrator is also great for renderings. There's more fundamental software that's less expensive or even free but they're extremely limited. Photoshop is the industry standard.

As far as 3D CAD there's a bunch of options with a variety of availability, capabilities and price. The most powerful ones are obviously going to be more expensive. Alias, SolidWorks, 3DSMax, Rhino, Maya, Vellum, Vector Works, Modo are some and I'm sure there are more. I used Alias for years but at multi-thousand dollar prices for even a basic student seat, it becomes cost prohibitive. There's bootlegged stuff out there I'm sure.

Long answer:
I'd start by drawing the "old fashion" way...pencils, pen, charcoal, pastels, paints, ketchup, whipped cream....whatever. There is no quick way to do a rendering/illustration of any type unless you're just altering photos. Anyone with access to Photoshop and some practice can do that.

Using software is just a tool to convey what's trapped in your head, it's not going to turn a novice artist into Michelangelo.

When it comes to 3D CAD, that's completely different. There's no fast and easy way to build an accurate model of most complex objects like cars, unless you're purchasing an existing model and tweaking it.

If you're looking to do "renderings", get some how to draw books first, then spend time drawing and understanding the way objects look in space. Understanding perspective is key to a good rendering. All the Photoshop effects in the world and a Wacom tablet won't hide a badly drawn perspective.

After a lifetime of drawing cars, I still pick my own stuff apart and push myself to do better on the next one. Never stop learning. I started using Photoshop in 99 and I'm fairly proficient at it, yet there's so much I don't know.

Good luck and be patient.

[tsquared38016]

Sounds like good advice. Thanks for responding.

[Matts]

Exactly! I am a self taught designer that came from hand drawing, then adobe and now 3D. As far as programs go, I prefer 3Ds Max because of the user friendly options. A single 3D drawing including interior takes around 2 to 3 months, then tweaking to your clients preference will take another 2 months. If you're a perfectionist like me you will lose count of the amount of hours dedicated to your drawing.

If you are wanting to get into 3D renderings, be ready to invest some money. You need an excellent PC computer to hold your 80+MB file. If you are a student you can try out some programs out on their official site.

[ateam]

if you want it free you can torrent the software otherwise it's a couple hundred each.

[3gservice]

Try out Gimp. Its limited, but it is free and has layering like Photoshop. The best advice I can give you is that if you are not artistic to begin with you better take Ben's advice and practice with the basics. Software isn't going to make you a DaVinci!

http://www.gimp.org/

Good luck