Warangel,

There has been some very good "sage" advice given in this thread. All I can add is "been there, done that". Computer 3D looks so easy on the surface, but it really isn't that easy. It takes time, and lots of it, to learn. I think you're simply trying to learn too much at the same time. Although some of the skills learned in Poser may ease the learning curve in Shade or Vue, they are two very complex and different programs (more complex than poser).

If you really want to model, one thing to consider is that Shade may not fit well with the way you think. Having a modeler that "fits" with your thought processes helps a great deal (speaking from experience here). Pick a simple modeling project, like a house with a couple of doors and a few windows, or a shirt or pair of pants. Try to model it in Shade, then try the same project in a few other programs like Wings 3D (free), Anim8or (free), older versions of software that have come free on 3D World and Computer Arts magazines (Cinema 4D V6se and Carrara 1.1), or demo versions of software. I would recommend trying Cinema 4D (it was the first one I could get my head around), Carrara Studio (has an interface very much like Poser), and Rhinocerous 3D (CAD like nurbs modeler), TrueSpace, and the free modelers. These will give you a very good cross section of different modeling styles/approaches. You'll know right away when you find the software that "fits", because things will just be more intuitive, and easier to do.

I tried 3DS MAX (couldn't do anything in 3DS), Lightwave (worse than 3DS), Rhino, and Blender - thought I'd never be able to make any complex models. Then I gave Cinema 4D a try. I could actually use it without wearing out the manual! But I know people who find C4D very difficult. I also find Carrara very intuitive. All I can say is it's all in your head!

Also, don't expect to be doing great things right away. If you spend 10-15 hours a week, it could easily take a year before you become somewhat "comfortable" with Poser and a modeling program (throw Vue5 Infinite into the mix and give yourelf another 6 months to a year). Keep in mind, that you won't be a 3D Guru after the year (unless your a genius), but you will be able to do many of the basics well.

Good luck, and hang in there. There are a lot of great people here who are willing to help. We've ALL been in your position, and many of us (myself included) are still on the lower end of the loooong learning curve.

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