The application relies on widely used computer 3D technology which works by creating groups of "points" (known as vertices) who form surfaces when connected. The illusion of three dimensions is created by modeling objects out of multiple surfaces. Still pictures, movies and game environments (among other things) can be created with this technique.

When a scene is finished it is normally rendered. Rendering refers to the act of calculating the scene, the shading, the colors and the textures. After rendering one is able to save the project in many different file formats including high resolution image and video files (such as AVI or QuickTime). Rendering a 3D scene can take anywhere from few seconds to several days depending on the complexity of the scene and the power of the computer. Rendering a movie is especially time-consuming.

CINEMA 4D has its own programming language, C.O.F.F.E.E., to develop platform independent plug-ins. It's also available a free plug-in.

There are three different packages put out by MAXON: the core CINEMA 4D application, the XL-Bundle (including Net Render [3 lic], PyroCluster, Advanced Render, MOCCA and Thinking Particles), and the Studio-Bundle, which includes all modules. CINEMA 4D runs on Windows and Macintosh PC's - a Linux version for commercial studio use is available upon request. Initially, CINEMA 4D was developed for Amiga computers in the early nineties.

MAXON has created a way for all users to be able to 'get into' 3D with their software by pursuing this route. There are also on-line communities such as c4d cafeand CGTalk available to help the neophyt C4Der. Finally, it should be noted that MAXON bundles printed manuals (at extra charge) and tutorials/videos with its software.