I've never modeled or animated anything, but a friend of mine told me that there was software on sale, so I thought I'd share it with you guys:

http://www.daz3d.com/

WHAT IS DAZ FREE 3D SOFTWARE?

The DAZ FREE 3D Software promotion is three award-winning 3D software products now available for the first time ever for free; this 3D software suite has a combined retail value of over $800!

I believe it is a legitimate program, and it seems like a legitimate sale. If anyone is interested or knows anything more on the subject, please leave it in the comments below.

It's legitimate, I've already downloaded Bryce. I've trusted Daz for awhile now.

I downloaded them a couple days ago just to add them to my 3d toolbox when I saw this thread. I'll probably never use them but at least i'll have them!

They work pretty well, the navigation takes a bit to get used to. Bryce is especially fun for doing terrain

EDIT
Here are my more complete thoughts