What software is best for making 3d computer generated images?

I don't wish to make an animation, I just want to mess around and make something as simple as a reflective domino standing on a counter. What is the best software to make just an image, not a video?

I don't care about the cost. If you know where to look, everything is free. ;)What software is best for making 3d computer generated images?The one I know that gives the best results is POVRay.

It is free. I don't think you need anything but that to do what you want.

You can see some samples here: http://hof.povray.org/

You usually make your 3D models using a special "language" to describe the scene, the textures, lighting, etc. but there are also some modelers to make your task easier, such as Moray here http://www.stmuc.com/moray/index.html



hth





BTW: Of course you can always get 3D Max Studio but you usually have to run a crack that more often than not contains some form of malware, but it's your call.