Hi angeliclight,

>>>More info is better in my opinion,

I do like your question and the feedback given. Coming from a background of mainly modeling and not needing to render (well apart from basic materials+machine lines) I do find the various renderer's being linked to interesting.


>>>It was just looking a little overwhelming, being new to 3D with some of these renderers looking like you had to take a class (or two) to be able to get good results from them!

I certainly agree.

I see there as been no mention of Bryce, which although is classed as a "landscape" program can produce some nice renders, and version 5.5 is still available for free http://www.download.com/Bryce/3000-6677_4-10696716.html (just another option~ as settings etc for render are quite easy)

Hi Steve,

I have Hypershot Web - $195 ( Same price as MoI ! )

The main difference between their versions is the max render size. Hypershot Web is 360,000 pixels max. Render quality is the same for all versions. Imports MoI obj files with no problem.

Keep in mind you can change the aspect ratio to custom dimensions, as long as the max size does not exceed 360,000. This allows you to render in landscape or portrait in order to maximize the available space. For example, some of my renders are 800x450, others are 500x720.

Ed

I would suggest Bryce for both the ease and cost, version 5.5 is still free thru DAZ. Blender is a great open source (free) app with a strong user base but to be honest has a steep learning curve. If you enjoy 3D Modeling and have the time it is worth it to explore Blender. It has grown in capability at a phenomenal rate and has some exciting features including a new UI coming later this year.
David

Here are links to a couple simple Bryce renders I did a while back:

Bryce 5 in 2005 http://i.pbase.com/o4/47/589247/1/48139197.JesusFishOrnament.jpg
Bryce 5.5 in 2006 http://k41.pbase.com/o5/47/589247/1/68084456.QRtSB6f4.TorusKnotatSea.jpg

Here is a basic Blender image I did recently via a MoI lamp base tutorial. It was done as a test before purchasing MoI: