Hi All,
I have actually posted in the new members thread before.
But that was a while ago and I did not really do anything here after that.
So instead of resurrecting the old thread, I figured I would start fresh.

I have been doing some digital artwork and editing for about 4 years now.
I have some experience with risk game board design (Conquer Club maps have smaller scale of 800x800 pixels max) but want to broaden my ability's and skills.
This place was always intriguing but there is only so much time in the day right?

But now I am moving away from CC to explore other areas here.
I am glad to become a part of the group here an I am looking forward to the contests, meeting new
people and growing in my knowledge of digital media and design.

With that being said, can anyone recommend a good way to start?
Most of the posts I have read say look over the tutorials (which I will do) but I am also interested in all the different software packages people use.

I will read over them and check them out in the forums but, could I get a quick "here is the software I use and why" from several people? I would appreciate it.

I currently have Photoshop CS2 and After effects 6.5 Pro (I sometimes use this for some animation or 3D setups) and I have illustrator at work. I am a mechanical engineer by trade and work for GM in the advance vehicle integration department.

Later