While there are many 3D creation applications available, SketchUp has always remained a bit apart in that it's geared to the conceptual stages of design, providing a relatively simple approach to 3D creation that maintains some of the speed and flexibility of pencil sketching. It can be thought of as a tool for designers and planners to explore, communicate and present complex design concepts, rather than painstakingly creating traditional CAD drawings.

SketchUp 6 Pro notably adds the ability to create 3D models from photographs and match existing models to background photos. Also new are Sketchy Effects, which add a hand-drawn dimension to models by rendering edges to look as if they were created with drawn lines. A new Fog feature adds haze to a model, with the color and density remaining adjustable for creating a range of non-photorealistic effects. SketchUp can now also convert 3D text to 2D outlines, filled surfaces, or extruded 3D objects, handy for creating signs and letters directly in SketchUp using the new 3D text tool.

SketchUp Pro 6 for Mac and Windows can be purchased on the SketchUp site for 469 euros. Trial versions are also available for download.