Expert: Olaf Piesche - 6/12/2005

Question
I'm trying to create a virtual fly-though of San FRancisco and Goldengate park.  I have a greyscale topographical map (highest points are white, lowest, black and varying grey representing elevations inbetween). I want to use that to create the land and then place buildings and trees in the city, create teh sky, clouds, sun and moon.

What is the best program to accomplish my idea?

Answer
There's a number of programs that can accomplish what you're looking for. 3D Studio Max as well as Maya offer the possibility to use height fields to create polygonal meshes. Both of these packages offer free limited versions - look for the time limited 3D Studio Max free trial version at www.discreet.com or for Maya PLE (personal learning edition) at www.alias.com which is limited in functionality but not in time.

Another program that may suit your needs is Bryce, which was specifically designed for landscape rendering. Take a look  at http://bryce.daz3d.com/ for more information.