I use 3ds max 2009, maya 8, after effects cs4, photoshop cs4, sketchup, gimp and paint.net.
I can make animated gifs, backgrounds, avi and more...
You can find some of my 3d works here: http://www.adventuremaker.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=5203
And.. HERE............. http://www.youtube.com/yearcut#play/uploads/2/MC7IMq_guNA