I've been using Carrara for 5 years almost every day (though I've had C for 10, was hard to pull myself away from RayDream to learn something slightly different). I'm capable enough with the program to use it for aerosol product label design visualization and building props for label images or product usage shots. I've developed working habits regarding vertex modeling, lighting, etc. that have been adequate at least. I think I'm becoming a better modeler, becoming more proficient at building different types of product containers and props.

I subscribed to the VTC tutorials to better understand shaders and shading, figuring I knew enough about everything else I could just skip ahead to that section. But instead I decided to start at the beginning, maybe I'd learn something anyway.

Holy moly! I've learned something new in almost every lesson, and I'm only as far as the vertex modeling lessons! I probably developed a bruise on my forehead for all the times I've slapped myself - "I could have done it that way!?" or "So that's what that tool does!"

I consider myself a seasoned user, by no means a pro (although I plan to get there) and the lessons have taught me so much and I've got a ways to go. I would highly recommend even a 1 month subscription to the tutorials even for long time users.

Cujos to Mark, not only for the fine work on the tuts, but also for his willingness to help the rest of us out on the forum. I hope to give back to the community myself as I learn more.

Thanks again,
Lumpy