3D Development Software

Autodesk 3Ds Max:

Autodesk 3ds Max, formerly 3D Studio Max, is 3D computer graphics software for making 3D animations, models, and images. It was developed and produced by Autodesk Media and Entertainment. It has modeling capabilities, a flexible plugin architecture and can be used on the Microsoft Windows platform. It is frequently used by video game developers, TV commercial studios and architectural visualization studios. It is also used for movie effects and movie pre-visualization.
Autodesk 3ds Max, in my opinion, is the most recognised and used piece of 3d modelling software, it is used by all different kinds of people such as students, companies, freelancers or just everyday PC users. It has been used in all kinds of products ranging from games, to cars or even used in surgery.  3ds Max has lots of different options available, you can; make 3d models, animate objects and you can also use special effects. 3ds Max is one of the great ways to get into the business and learn the trade of 3D modelling. There is a new release of software for 3ds Max every year, and plenty of updates as well. There has been new features added throughout 2010, some of these are, render quality viewport display and a new “Graphite Modeling Tools” option. however the best way to learn about 3Ds Max is to try it out yourself because its a giant program which has so much potential.

Autodesk Maya:

Autodesk Maya 3D animation software delivers an end-to-end creative workflow with comprehensive tools for animation, modelling, simulation, visual effects, rendering, matchmoving, and compositing on a highly extensible production platform. Autodesk Maya is a piece of 3d modelling software used across the world, it has won multiple awards including; Academy Award for Technical Achievement. Maya uses scripting to create excellent character animations and modelling tools, and gives you the ability to create stunning visual effects for Television. It does this by using code which is called Maya Embedded Language (MEL) and Python scripting. Whether you work in film, games, television, advertising, publishing, or graphic design, Maya offers state-of-the-art toolsets . Autodesk Maya 2012 delivers new toolsets for previsualization and game prototyping, extended simulation capabilities, and improved pipeline integration.

Autodesk Softimage:

Autodesk Softimage software, most likely known as Avid Softimage XSI is a high-performance 3D character animation and visual effects application. Intuitive, nondestructive workflows and the innovative ICE (Interactive Creative Environment)- which is the node based part of Softimage, and Autodesk Face Robot facial animation toolsets extend Autodesk Maya or Autodesk 3ds Max software pipelines. With new creative tools, enhanced interoperability with Autodesk Entertainment Creation Suite Premium products, and support for the latest technology trends, Autodesk Softimage enables you to meet the evolving challenges in 3D game development and post-production.

ZBrush:

ZBrush is a digital sculpting tool that combines qualities together, for example.. 3D / 2.5D modelling, texturing and painting (Colouring). ZBrush uses a proprietary “pixol” technology, which stores lighting, colour, materials and in depth information of all the objects on screen. The main factors that differentiate ZBrush to more traditional modelling packaging is that it is more affiliated to sculpting. ZBrush is also  used as a digital sculpting tool to create high-resolution models (Ten million polygons) for use in films, games and animation.
ZBrush is used by a variety of different companies ranging from ILM ‘Institute of Leadership and Management’ to ‘Electronic Arts’. ZBrush also uses dynamic levels of resolution to maintain global / local changes to their models, ZBrush is most known for it’s sculpting process, being able to sculpt medium to high frequency details that were traditionally painted in bump maps. ZBrush is mostly used in 3D Computer Graphics. Although much cheaper than other 3D modelling software, it isn’ quite as extensive in creating things, but is still great for what can potentially do.