I've never used any 3D package before. But thinking about learning one now.

My main interest is Digital Matte Painting, but I want to learn some 3D modeling, animation, FX also…for film production.

Would you recommend Houdini for a first timer? or should I look at other packages like maya, xsi, 3dsmax, etc?

Right now Im just a hobbyist…but someday I hope to work for a production house.

hi
i am also painter but work a lot in 3d
my main package is maya but i am learning houdini also
it is soo goooood and flexible
and dont listen to anybody who tells you it is not artist friendly, cause it is!

Actually, people that have never used 3D before learn Houdini the fastest, and make the best use of it in some cases, because they are not “polluted” by other package's ways of doing things.

Cheers,
Peter B