My girlfriend's son is graduating HS this year and plans to major in 3D modeling and game design in college. He's been using the programs they have at school (no, I don't know which) but I want to get him off on the right foot to give him a head start before he gets there. Problem is I don't know anything about this. What programs are considered the industry standards (Daz, etc)? Any help from those in the biz as to what I should buy would be GREATLY appreciated! THANKS IN ADVANCE FOR YOUR TIME!!!!

UPDATE: Apparently he's got a year in on 3Dsmax. I told him to set up page so he can pick your brains. When he does I'll introduce him. THANKS to everyone who responded (in such incredible depth)! Really means a lot to me!

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I'm constantly getting really involved painting lesson questions. While I would love answer every one in detail I just can't. I posted a very detailed FAQ journal [link] that covers a lot of questions and links to a VERY detailed step by step tutorial. PLEASE refer to that as I just cannot give one on one lessons on deviantART. Thank you all so much for your amazing interest in and appreciation of my work!