Lightwave has long been my choice when it coms to 3D applications. It's been on the hard drive since version 5.6, which should have been around 1998. The only 3D-application you really need. From modelling, texturing and lighting to animation and rendering. The latest version bodes well for the future.

To create all models, backgrounds and object that I need, Lightwaves "other half" Modeler is used. I feel really at home in Modeler. I can create almost anything with great speed. The subD-modelling of Modeler is one of my favorites.

A small but powerful program used for sketching, storyboards etc. Perfect complement for a Wacom-board.

To keep track of all the render-nodes in a Mac OS X network there is only one way to go, Renderfarm Commander from Bruce Rayne. Truly hassle-free render-node control!

When it comes to great, realistic outdoor-scenes with lots of trees and mountains it's hard to beat Vue 5 Infinite.

 
I use a lot of extra plugins for Lightwave, mostly free ones (far too many to list here). The commercial ones are as follows:

• EasySplit »
• Fire&Smoke Generator »
• FPrime »
• G2 »
• Grass Generator »
• Leaves Generator »
• LW-CAD »
• Maestro »
• Trees Designer »
• Wrinkle »
• X-Dof2 »