Geez, I started in 3D with Blender, which is total freeware. I did spend about $100 on a couple books about the app, then I got Poser, which is cheap for what it does with character meshes. All told, I've spent less than $400 on a hobby that has kept me amused and made me some good friends, which you can't put a price tag on. It's been the cheapest hobby I've ever had. :O)