It really depends on what you want to do - if you want to merge photos of people into digital landscapes, that's one way; if you want digital people and objects into photos - that's another. If you are not a very technical person and want to be as close to the art as possible, I'd suggest some of the simpler, more intuitive art programs - Vue, Poser, etc. If you want to be able to create anything you want, however you want (and don't mind a steeper learning curve), go for Lightwave or 3DS MAX. It's really all about what your artistic inclinations are. -Zak

"Walk down the right back alley in Sin City, and you can find anything."