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Several months ago I began an informal quest. The aim of this sojourn was to discover the existence of an application that could meet some rather stringent requirements. What made this search difficult was that I was seeking a 3D application with some rather unusual properties. Admittedly finding 3D applications is not difficult. It is relatively easy to locate powerhouse professional applications. What is not so easy is locating a 3D application that is professional, high powered and accessible to most users. Added to this was the requirement that it be within “reason” regarding price points. When all of this added together, the choices become increasingly narrow.
At the extreme high end are programs like Maya, 3ds Studio Max, Lightwave and Softimage rounding out some of the better known professional packages. The big cons with these programs are price and system requirements. As powerful as these applications are, they do make some rather demanding requirements on the systems that run them. When one factors in the price of these applications, some are more than most entire computer systems, they may not be appropriate. Suddenly they become unapproachable by everyone except those with deep pockets or large expense accounts.
If the issues of affordability and system power are overcome, the last hurdle is that of ease of use. As competent as high end software can and often is, simplicity is not always a high priority for some companies. Just like high end graphics programs that are notorious for having steep learning curves, 3D applications are not known for being that easy to operate.
While the market has many solid mid-range products, which are suited for casual users, what I was seeking was a high-end application with serious power that at the same time could be approachable by users with a strong interest in 3D, but without unlimited resources.
Much to my surprise and amazement, after many hours of searching, I found an application that met my requirements. Give or take a few minor adjustments, I seriously doubt if anyone can find an application this powerful, this accessible, and most of all this much fun to utilize as Maxon’s Cinema 4D.
Putting fun and games aside, Maxon’s Cinema 4D, now with version 8.1, is not unknown to 3D enthusiasts. What may not be so well known is that this is a professional package. Having won over 80 awards, as well as being utilized in the recently released film “Daredevil,” Cinema 4D is definitely a high-end application with professional power. What may not be so well known is that this program is accessible to most users, and is not in the highest echelons of price points. It is indeed possible that an end user could actually purchase and use this program.
Taking a modular approach, Cinema 4D is not one application, but in reality several. What makes Maxon’s product practical without sacrificing power or quality is that it is a modular application. The core of the program is Cinema 4D. One can purchase the core, and still have enough power to perform high-end functions. However, should you need more power, more configurability, or specific features, you can purchase plug-ins as separate units. Rather than purchasing a huge program with features you may never use, Maxon’s approach allows a greater deal of customization regarding feature sets than most singular standalone applications. For those that want and need everything, Maxon has released the product as a suite.
Cinema 4D XL Bundle and the Studio Bundle are all-in-one solutions that include the core along with a rich set of “modules.” There is so much here, that one can work with Cinema without having to search for third party add-ons. At the same time the modular approach means accessibility for those that want power, but do not need every type of modeling function.
What is so surprising about this is that Cinema 4D ships with an incredible set of support documents. What I am referring to is “hard copy.” Weighing in at a hefty 1000 plus pages, the manual is deep, rich and detailed. Also enclosed is an excellent tutorial book of over 200 pages that outlines the basic functions of the application. The program even ships with a Maxon case to carry your software with you.
The tutorial is a marvel in that it offers step-by-step instructions that take the pain out of learning what are admittedly complex operations. For those dedicated to learning 3D programs, Maxon has really made the task about as easy as it could possibly be. Well written, and it does not talk down to newbies, Maxon has done an excellent job at opening up 3D design for everyone. While this may require a few hours, trust me when I say it does not get any easier than this, the investment will pay off in excellent results. Maxon has effectively removed the need for new users to purchase instructional books. The hard copy documentation Maxon has included is truly a marvel.
What helps Cinema 4D leap ahead of so many products is the use of an elegant, but sophisticated, interface. Not unlike other high end applications, Cinema has a plethora of options. However, this is not made more complex by a distracting interface. When one uses Maxon’s Cinema one has the feeling that usability was given a real priority, not lip service.
Within a short period of time, you may very well be able to create images and three dimensional forms in a two dimensional space. Granted, I took some liberties with the enclosed exercises, I literally had so much fun, I just added my own distinctive touches. The exciting part is that you can as well. If you have ever had problems grasping the subtle nuances of Metaballs, this application will lift the veils of mystery. If you are not familiar with Metaballs, Maxon’s modeling system will make you aware of the options and joys of working with shapes and forms. I like to think of Metaballs as highly elastic digital clay. By altering the properties of the basic shapes, interaction between one or more shapes can create some rather interesting forms like my rounded bear with a belly button.
If terms like primitives, hypernurbs and multi pass rendering are not a part of your working vocabulary, Cinema will certainly make the process of learning these terms and concepts much easier. You can start creating textured images without waiting. Although this is a premium package, Maxon has taken the intimidation out of working with complex packages.
Included with the XL package that I reviewed are the following modules, Net Render, Thinking particles, Advanced Render, Mocca and Pyro Cluster. Also available in a packaged set, Maxon’s Studio Bundle offers the same modules as those with the XL plus, Body Paint 3D and Dynamics. For more details on packages, feature sets and updates, do visit the Maxon site, www.maxon.net for more details.
In addition to the superior documentation that comes with Cinema 4D, Maxon maintains a well organized site that includes links, resources and work created using the application. Also, Maxon is excellent with regards to contacting customers, and in particular support. Online one can also find a demo to test run the application. Also of note is that installation is fast, easy and simple. Everyone runs smoothly, and this program is incredibly stable. In the hours I spent with it, Cinema never crashed, stalled or burped. It ran effortlessly time and time again.
When it comes to user friendliness, features, stability and power, few applications can be compared to Maxon’s Cinema 4D. For creative professionals and serious visual artists, both digital and non-digitally based, Cinema 4D is the type of application that meets the demands that creative people place on an application. At the same time offering the power, configurability and attention to detail that high end users will not only want, but demand, this is an incredibly robust application. Here both the technologically advanced and those just coming to the table can find sanctuary in an application that time and time again makes the creative process the joy it should be.
Being a professionally trained visual artist, Cinema 4D is an application that offers the kind of interface that invites rather than repels. Without resorting to gimmicks or overly ornate detail, Maxon has achieved the right balance between aesthetics and function. If I sound like a Maxon 4D convert, well I have to admit, I do think highly of this incredible program.
While Maya may win awards and a devoted following, do not let that detour you from exploring the many wonders that Cinema 4D has to offer. While Maxon’s product lacks the name recognition of Maya, it also lacks the large price tag. For about $595.00, give or take a few, you can enter the world of professional 3D design and animation. What makes this an even better deal for consumers is that a fairly recent computer can run a program this complex. When I informed a design professional what I was doing with Cinema, she could not believe that a standard PC could do this much. Naturally, I was not working on a low-end system. However, I was not working on a state of the art workstation either.
If one keeps in mind that Cinema 4D, like all complex design applications has a steep learning curve, Maxon has done everything possible to make the process as pain free as possible.
There is a great deal to like, admire and enjoy about Cinema 4D. If you are very serious about 4D, or you have an interest, time to invest and want to learn, this is an excellent place to begin. Even for those with professional demands, Cinema 4D has you more than adequately covered. For me, Cinema had brought stability, power and affordability in a program that can keep pace with the big high-end players without throwing a slew of obstacles at the end user.
Let me suggest that you follow the recommended system requirements for the best results.
Talk to Kurt in Graphics Unleashed Forums
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