3D Video Animation can be fun, and if you are highly motivated, it can be profitable also. Setting aside the profitability factor for now, as most of us just want to have fun with our software purchases, let's look at the possibilities for using 3D animation programs for their entertainment value. A few possibilities are:
Providing the kids clean fun entertainmentLearning a valuable skillEnjoying a unique video experience3D Animation encourages and develops creativity and imaginationThe ability to develop and play your own 3D gamesWhen I first started "playing" with animation software, I was already well past the age where most would consider turning this pastime into a career. Although it is never too late to teach an old dog new tricks I prefer to use my new talent solely to entertain, and sometimes irritate the family.
One of the main concerns for me was the learning curve. In the early days of animation creation that curve was quite steep, probably more so for those of us that did not grow up with a laptop in our kindergarten class. I acquired my first PC in the late 90's, and felt like I had been living in the Stone Age. I had! Thankfully, the makers of many graphics driven software programs have seen the potential in the personal home market. What was once software for the likes of Disney Pixar and such can now be used by "dummies" like me. In no way do I profess to be a techie. I do find that my living room is littered with a Wii, PS3, Xbox, and what seems like warehouse full of DVDs, and a rainbow of gaming discs. I can comfortably change the input to the TV, and even stream video from my PC. I have managed to semi-master one small corner of technology which is a win for those of us who are eligible to join the old folks discount clubs.
What can you do with 3D animation software? The answer is "LOTS". Depending upon the software that you are using you can create broadcast quality 3D content, high quality modeling, 3D figure design and animation, rendering, post-production, real-time interactive 3D and games creation with live playback. My favorite is drawing and animating my own creations. Remember I said I was not a techie? Well, my skill has always been drawing. I was the kid in class who drew, and sketched when I should have been learning. I still passed by the skin of my teeth, and have a great artistic ability. At least I am happy with my ability!
I personally like to opt for the comical creative. Using my drawing skills allows me to render hundreds of images, almost exclusively of family. I must say not all of them are politically correct, as there is a mother-in-law involved. This is where imagination comes in. Although I have not touched all the possibilities I have created videos that produce more laughs around the holidays than any drunken relative. Personally I refuse to be serious, and leave the robots and simulated river rides to the kids. My children entertain their friends with their home-made games and videos. My oldest daughter, who is 19, has actually won a school science contest using tips and tricks provided by her old man. And yes, I am bragging, and that is priceless.
Would you like any type of animation and 3D game design software? If you have read this far the answer is that you probably would. I would advise that you do not spend a fortune if you want to try your hand at learning any type of graphics software. There are very powerful and feature rich programs available for under $50. If you feel you may be interested but don't want to waste your money due to feeling you may be overwhelmed there is an easy solution to this. Have a 12 year old around! They can figure out anything technology related, although they will probably hog the computer to use YOUR new toy. Another caveat is to make sure that the software has a money back guarantee in case it just isn't for you.
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