Calida Productions - Downloads, Resources, Freebies & More For 3D Artists

It's not only easy - it's free! Even if you're a complete novice, there is free software out there that can get you started. We have tutorials on site here, but what you really need is some software!

If you're a sculpture sort of artist, you may want to start making 3d models - Blender is entirely free, but may be fairly intimidating unless you follow some graded tutorials to learn the basics. Once you get going though, this tool will let you produce amazing work, combining 3D modeling, rendering, animation, and even game development in one package.

If you're more interested in creating fantastic images without making individual models from scratch, then you just can't go wrong with the free Daz Studio. This rival to the expensive Poser offers a lot of free starting models - the standard realistic male and female figures Michael 4 and Victoria 4 are free, the download comes with scenes and props to get you started, and the site has regular free downloads and offers once you're ready to start spending some cash. The thing we've always loved about Studio is its ease of use and modular approach to functionality - you can get a lot out of the program without ever buying anything, but if you want to do something specific you can buy just the add-on you want, without having to spend hundreds of dollars on a whole suite of software. Highly recommended if you want to get started in 3d!

Of course, once you've got your first few images rendered you may want to do what is known as 'post-work' - adding effects and tweaks in a more traditional 2d graphic environment. You don't need to spend hundreds of dollars on PhotoShop - The excellent Gnu Image Manipulation Program. GIMP for short. It is testament to its popularity that a Google for 'Gimp' returns it as the top result, and not something pornographic! This again is completely free software, and a fully functional graphic manipulation package. There is even a mod called PhotoGimp that makes it feel more like its expensive alternative.

With these three tools you can take your first tentative steps into the world of 3d art and design without spending a penny!