Can't Choose A Rendering Program

[3darchitect]

Ok, I'm torn between myself and everything else. I don't know what program to use for 3D modeling and rendering. I'm profficient (relatively) with ADT, and I've begun using 3ds for rendering, but I've seen so many other programs out there, and I have no idea which one I should go with.

 

I'm just starting out on the 3d modeling path, and want to learn one program, rather than jumping between several. I've already pretty much decided that I want to stay away from ADT for rendering - I know that's not a good idea, and I'm considering doing all my modeling and rendering in 3ds. Any other suggestions anyone? What does one program have that another doesn't? I'm also strong on the idea of staying with Autodesk because my firm is based on that. I need to decide soon, because I have another project infront of me now and need to get started. I appreciate the feedback - thanks

[Brian Cassil]

You may want to go the 3ds max or viz way since you already have a grounding in ADT. I don't work this way, but many do modeling in autocad/ADT and use the file-link utility in max/viz for rendering. That way when you change somehting in ADT it updates automatically in max. The one drawback is max is kinda pricey, and you may still need to purchase a rendering plugin (v-ray, finalrender, brazil) on top of that.

[3darchitect]

Yea, about that. I've already done one project using an ADT model imported into 3dsmax, and it was a pain. Alhough, I admit it definitely could have been because I did it wrong, but who knows (I did use the File Link, but it wouldn't import properly). I understand that modeling directly in 3dsmax is pretty good too - may I ask how you go about your renderings, and maybe send some examples? Thanks

[Brian Cassil]

I do just that - model and render in max. I choose to do so for a few reasons but mostly because it just happens to be what I'm comfortable with. I work with another fellow off and on who does everything in lightwave and does it very well. I'm also very intrigued with Modo. Those are definetly less expensive options and are equally as capable in my opinion, however, you will find less support and less of a community amoung others who use those programs. Knowing others who use what you are learning can be a big help in getting started.

[3darchitect]

I see, well that makes sense. Is there a reason that the community/popularity of 3dsmax is so much greater than others (seeing as how there are other less expensive and equally capable programs)? Just wondering. If you could take the time, I have another post in the 3ds forums that needs some feedback.

 

So, basically, there really aren't that many differences between the final rendering reguarding different programs. It just the inbetween process that varies and is more comfortable than another. That it?

[Brian Cassil]

So, basically, there really aren't that many differences between the final rendering reguarding different programs. It just the inbetween process that varies and is more comfortable than another. That it?

 

Exactly! And if you have come to realize that already, you're doing a lot better than many who have been doing visualization for a long time.

 

I saw your other thread. You may want to break that into 2 or 3 threads, and post some images or files of the roof in question. It's going to take someone a bit of time to answer all those questions at once.

[3darchitect]

Cool. That makes me feel better. So, I'll just look around, but I guess 3dsmax is the way I'll probably go - I've already done one project with it, I just need to get better with the modeling. Thanks for the info and help. I'm not sure how I'm going to tackle the roof thing yet, but I'll post any problems I have. Thanks again:)

 

Also, would you say it is easier to model in ADT or in 3dsmax?

[Jffay]

I've done a little modeling in Maya and am just curious as to what makes it not so popular among architects around here. I was wondering because I am a civil engineering major and I hope to go to graduate school in architecture and I was wondering if I should switch to Max before I make 3d modeling more than a hobby.

[AJLynn]

Max has the advantages of having the best interoperability with Autocad, ADT and now Revit, and being able to run Vray, which is preferred by a lot of the people here. For school use... well, it depends how you want to work, but I did most of my best work in school in Cinema4D - its toolset and organization lend themselves well to parametric modeling work.

[santiago]

Max has the advantages of having the best interoperability with Autocad, ADT and now Revit, and being able to run Vray, which is preferred by a lot of the people here. For school use... well, it depends how you want to work, but I did most of my best work in school in Cinema4D - its toolset and organization lend themselves well to parametric modeling work.

 

AJLynn, can you link Inventor parts and assemblies into Revit with a dynamic link that will keep both sides updated? I was just wondering, since you mentioned Revit, I thought that perhaps you use that app. There isn't a Revit section to this forum.

[STRAT]

i'm an autocad/ADT modeller and i render in cinema 4d. (i used to use viz and max, but found c4d more user friendly). renderers give much of a muchness, but for someone starting out on that path, who's already an autocad modeller, i'd reccomend viz/max. this way you'll also have the industry standard Vray available to you

[STRAT]

There isn't a Revit section to this forum.

 

isn't there?

[AJLynn]

AJLynn, can you link Inventor parts and assemblies into Revit with a dynamic link that will keep both sides updated? I was just wondering, since you mentioned Revit, I thought that perhaps you use that app. There isn't a Revit section to this forum.

 

Actually I've barely used Revit and never used Inventor (messed around with Revit a bit cause it was in our lab at school) so I don't know the answer.

 

BTW, Strat, what exactly is "much of a muchness"? Though I think I kind of know what you mean. The C4D renderer rocks, but often it's not very fast.

[STRAT]

'much of a muchness' kinda means they all do similar stuff. just depends on the skill of the user.

 

the c4d renderer is showing it's age now (hopefully the imminent new release will quell that) and can be 'slow' rendering interiors, but for exteriors, it's still faster than a chicken running through an ethiopean camp imo.