Photoshop and 3ds max + vray.

Depends on where you are, are you an advanced artist?
Maya, Bryce, True Space, 3Dsmax, Poser...the list goes on.
you should also think post work software like PhotoShop
PaintShop pro..etc.
Daz Studio is a good choice for beginners playing with 3D
it has good features for new 3d artists without the expsense.

PainShop pro and Photoshop have trailware too for postworking
your images, photobrush from "chance media" is also an excellent editing program.
There is program or software out there for any need..shareware or otherwise.
Trust me, I have tried lots of them over my 25 years on the net.