I personally use both Bryce (see my nick..I'm one of the 'original' brycers) and Carrara (from back when it was raydream) While I can do anything in either application that I want, I'd say that Carrara is probably the best buy for someone looking for an "all around" app. Especially since C4 comes with Amapi Designer (an extremely powerful modeling program which I made a tutorial cd for). You get a very large wallup for the purchase of C4. If you are just beginning 3d however, Bryce is hands down the tool to get to learn the principle while having the ability to create stunning work. Its the easiest tool out there to introduce a user to 3d and its basic principles (coordinates, texturing, atmosphere, lighting..etc) Carrara can/does indeed offer these, but just not as simply as Bryce. If you have the cash, Id suggest both... if you want the biggest bang for your buck C4 if you just want to test the 3d waters and still get results then bryce your call luck in your choice, any way you go...I dont think you'll be sorry. :) BT