I need too know if graphics tablets like the Wacom Cintiq would work with 3D maodeling programs like Maya? Also, could I use it too draw 3D objects, or would I still need to use the mouse, keyboard, and various options too make the object 3D?

Yes, tablets and Cintiqs work with 3D programs but 3D models aren't really "drawn" so tablet use in something like Maya doesn't really offer any advantages (aside from avoiding carpal tunnel). I know of some people who like to use the tablet for 3D anyways, but most stick with a mouse.

High detail sculpting programs like ZBrush or MudBox are different. They involve more direct drawing motions which obviously benefit from pen use.

Thanks for the info LockePick, its sincerely appreciated. So I’m looking for a 3D sculptor as apposed to a modeler. Anything else like MudBox that could be helpful?

Quote: Original post by David Johnson
Thanks for the info LockePick, its sincerely appreciated. So I’m looking for a 3D sculptor as apposed to a modeler. Anything else like MudBox that could be helpful?

Well I don't really know what you're "looking for". This is a programmer-heavy forum, so are you just trying to pop out a few models to use somewhere or are you looking to be a professional artist?

ZBrush/MudBox are used to add detail to models that are created in Maya. So what a professional artist would be "looking for" is to create models in Maya and then import them into MudBox where it's easier to go crazy with detailing.

But if you just want to make some low polygon models for games without worrying about insanely detailed next-gen normal maps then ZBrush/MudBox won't do you much good. They are very high-end tools.

I've used my tablet for modeling in Maya in Zbrush both fairly extensively. Zbrush definitely benefits from it, though Maya was just sort of a personal preference sort of thing.