Im totally new to pursuing my dream as an animator, what are some essential software programs that I should become proficeint with? I like ZBrush, Ive used it for the 30 day trial. Did ok…What other programs do I need and how much are they? thanx for the advise, you guys amaze me on here!
Noob
Try a few Google searches and some here on the forum as well:
http://wiki.cgsociety.org/index.php/Comparison_of_3d_tools
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Comparison_of_3D_computer_graphics_software
In short, if you want to animate (you did say animator, right? ;)) Then you’ll need animation software (MotionBuilder, Maya, Max, etc). If you strictly want to model, try ZBrush. If you give us a more precise description of what you’d like to do, perhaps we can point you towards the correct software.
The single best place to go an learn animation in itself:
http://www.animationmentor.com/
Anything else is pretty much a huge waste of time.
Animation mentor would never give you up or let you down.
You also might check out this review:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3HrSN7176XI
Lemo
or huuurt youuuu 
That’s right!
Lemo 
aber sonst geht’s euch gut, oder? How cheesy is that … rofl
I knew it was going to be an interesting day when I woke up and got RickRolled on ZBC.
(Also, The Game)
@Jring383: Any luck? 