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A Glimpse at the Top 3D Animation Packages

Top animation schools and production studios today favor one or more of the top 3D animation packages on the market. While most programs have high-end 3D computer modeling capabilities, each is packaged differently and offers unique feature sets. The good news is that the basic concepts and tool kits apply across the board in terms of theory and functionality. While one software program may lack the muscularity of another, each animation package has distinct advantages.

Looking them over the top four 3D animation packages:

Maya
Platform: Works on Windows, Linux, IRIX, and Mac OS platforms
Special Features: Uses proprietary scripting language (Maya Embedded Language) to enable broad customization. Modeling, rendering and dynamics tools considered top for Hollywood productions.

3DS Max
Platform: Designed for Win32 and Win64 platforms
Special Features: Uses built-in proprietary MAXScript language. Employs a powerful scanline renderer.

Cinema 4D
Platform: Runs on Mac OS X 10.4 and Windows 2000, XP
Special Features: Favorite of matte painters. Uses proprietary C.O.F.F.E.E. scripting. Four high-end rendering plug-ins.

Blender
Platform: Designed to run on Microsoft Windows, Mac OS X, GNU/Linux, IRIX, Solaris, FreeBSD, SkyOS, and MorphOS.
Special Features: Freeware. Operates on embedded Python-based scripting language. Employs similar, robust simulation and animation tools common to the top 3D animation packages.

While there are definite advantages to each of these top four 3D animation packages, it ultimately comes down to your own native talent and mastery of the software tools. Choosing the renderer may be your most important consideration. Test-drive as many as you can.

Schools are listed in alphabetical order by state then city.

The Art Institute of Pittsburgh - Online Division

[Online]

Develop your creative potential through The Art Institute of Pittsburgh Online Division where we give you the freedom to decide when and where to attend class. Because you're always on the go, we offer education to go wherever you connect to the Internet. While we meet the demands of your busy lifestyle, our online degree and diploma programs go even further by embracing the standards of excellence long held by The Art Institute of Pittsburgh and The Art Institutes system of schools backed by an over 85-year commitment to academic excellence. Learn from the leader in online creative arts education.
Programs:
Digital Design
Game Art & Design
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American InterContinental University Online

[Online]

The Visual Communication online degree program is designed to educate and develop artistic and imaginative students for careers in the fields of commercial art and design. Emphasis is placed on the development of the thinking process and the ability to conceive creative solutions for specified design problems. Students will learn the principles, practical applications and methodologies used in completing competent and creative graphic solutions.
Programs:
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Communications
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Westwood College Online	[Online]
Start your future in technology today at Westwood College Online. Programs: Animation Game Software Development Graphic Design and Multimedia Visual Communications Web Design & Multimedia Request More Information >