Titanic401.

Yeah Blender is better if you can figure it out. I'm not denying that. Although you don't have the same access to models as you do with poser compatible software. I've seen lots of Blender people ask about using DAZ characters for example.

Also I got going with DAZ 3D initially in no time at all. With Blender I really struggled to get it to do anything. Carrara although different to DAZ 3D has the advantage of being similar. It took me a little while but the progression was a natural one.

Re: Prices. Carrara 7 Pro cost me $0 (from a magazine), C8 Pro cost be either $69 or $88 from memory (as an upgrade) I can't quite remember but around there. You'd be mad to pay full prices.

The usual progression goes - DAZ 3D FREE! Then you learn that there are lots of offers in the store. Then they make you an offer you cant refuse on Carrara and you are in - for the price of a few models.

Now back to rendering. You have to spend a LOT of time messing about with poor lights - three point lighting is the way to go and then expand your knowledge from there.

However if there is a fast unbiased engine out there which sits in the program giving you (near) instant previews, then the excellent integrated nature of Carrara comes good.

Other than that I guess this is a defunct argument as it comes down to personal preference, and the abilty of the artist.

What do you use out of interest?

Cheers.