Programming language

What do you mean "The end result is 3D image."?

I suggest to do it in PHP it is easy to learn lite weight and a lot of tutorials online

I think you will struggle with 3D images in php. 2D images no problem but 3D will be really really tricky

To provide the best answer, we would need more details about the project. My initial response, based on the details you've provided, would be to develop the app in ASP.net (VB or C#) or Java - depending on the skills of your team. PHP might be a good choice if the developer is highly skilled in the use of the language.

If you intend to allow users to upload flat images and output an ebook or software box cover (for example), your program will need to be able to manipulate the image to create the 3D output.

With ASP.net, you have several ways to manipulate and output graphics. One way to do this is by using VML - vector markup language. You might even be able to code your own 3D transformation library using GDI+ on the server. I haven't tried that, so I'm providing a couple of links with additional information in case you're interested.

I'm not an expert Java programmer, but I'm certain there are libraries available for use with Java that will allow you to do what you have planned. In fact, a quick search reveals that Java may be the best choice for the job. There are tons of resources for creating 3D graphics with Java.

I did a quick search and located at least one link that provided some details on how to create 3D graphics using PHP. (link below)

The ultimate choice depends on the skillset of the programmers on your team. You just have to be sure the language you choose provides all of the necessary functionality to accomplish the task at hand. ASP.net and Java (and possibly PHP) will do that.

VML / SVG (for use with ASP.Net)
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http://www.garybeene.com/3d/3d-vml.htm
http://www.lutanho.net/svgvml3d/index.html

C# Image Transformation Examples (using GDI+)
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Image Transformation in C# with GDI+

Quaternion Mathematics and 3D Library with C# and GDI+ - CodeProject®


3D in PHP
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PHPDeveloper.org: PHPClasses.org: 3D graphics in pure PHP

3D in Java
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Java 3D API Tutorial
http://www.garybeene.com/3d/3d-pure.htm

3D programming is very tricky, there ar frame works such as OpenGl and DirectX(Windows Only) that allows you programming with 3D objects. For web applications I recommend you Adobe Flash with action script, I have read they have addedd a feature that supports Hardware acceleration rendering. PHP as no use unless you are providing static results.

I would also say PHP and the easiest way to learn PHP is from examples and tutorials. Unlike JavaScript, the PHP statements are run on the Web server. They can do servery things, like access databases.

My suggestion here is to partner with someone who has some skills in communicating in IT speak. As you can tell from some of the other posts you've barely scratched the surface with enough information to give you a clear answer.

For Higher Level projects go with ASP . net

And as everybody said PHP is easy to learn

I think you can go with both PHP and ASP but in last you have to decide to go on which. Both are great programming languages.