All images from Inspired 3D Short Film Production by Jeremy Cantor and Pepe Valencia, series edited by Kyle Clark and Michael Ford. Reprinted with permission.

Be sure to check out Part 1 and Part 2 of Production Planning to learn about basics such as the production pipeline and budget analysis.

Production Cost 2: Software
It goes without saying that you will need a sufficient CG modeling and animation package to create a CG film (see Figure 11). There are many choices available, each with individual strengths, weaknesses, quirks and price tags. Some of the most common are as follows:

• Animation:Master from Hash Inc. $299. Available for both Windows and Macintosh computers.

• Carrara Studio 3 from Eovia (formerly Infini-D from MetaCreations). $399. Macintosh only.

• Cinema 4D from MAXON. $600. Windows and Macintosh.

• LightWave from NewTek. About $1,600 for the full version. Windows and Macintosh.

• Discreet’s 3ds max. About $3,500. Windows only.

• SOFTIMAGE|XSI from Avid. Price can range from about $4,000 to $14,000 depending on the version and the status of Avid’s promotional discounts. Available for Windows, Linux or SGI.

• Maya Complete or Maya Unlimited from Alias. $1,999 and $6,999, respectively. Available for Windows, Macintosh, Linux or SGI systems.

[Figure 11] CG software packages come with a variety of specific features and price tags.

All of these packages offer full functionality in the areas of modeling, animation, lighting and rendering. Some are better with audio file handling, while others have some degree of compositing capabilities. Depending on the versions, procedural effects such as particles, cloth and hair are also included in some of these packages. Discounted student versions are available on the more expensive packages.

Before you purchase a piece of CG software, be sure to check its technical requirements to make sure your operating system is compatible and your computer specs are sufficient.

In addition to programs you will use for creating the digital assets and imagery for your film, you might also need software for other production tasks, such as writing, organizing and scheduling. These include word-processing programs, such as Microsoft Word or WordPerfect, spreadsheet programs, such as Microsoft Excel, and database software, such as FileMaker Pro. Other handy software utilities might include file renamers, screen grabbers and virus scanners.

Investigate your software possibilities and choices with regard to functionality and affordability. Visit their websites for information. Read reviews and ask around. Download and evaluate trial versions whenever possible. Also consider what your friends or colleagues are using. If your choices are consistent with theirs, you will be able to share information and files much easier.