I'm aware of 3ds Max. Don't have the money for it. Then there's Lightwave and Maya people have been talking about. I've heard they're industry standards, but what I haven't been able to find out is which one to begin with. I'm looking to get into 3d Modeling, and although someone suggested to start with something small like Blender, would there really be a point in becoming familiar with a less powerful and possibly less compatible software program that'll just be replaced with better software in time? I'm curious of which application I should strive for, and furthermore, any tutorials that might help, for modeling and eventually character design and environmental design. Unfortunately, schooling wouldn't fit with my schedule for the moment.

 

Any advice would be appreciated!