What Should I Print?, Using a 3D Scanner and MORE!!!

This Episodes Questions

Is 3D modeling the right path for me?
Hey guys, I really look forward to your podcasts!  I have been listening since the very early days finding you via Guy’s work with woodworking.  Yet, I have not bought a printer.   I am a 72 year old retired Chemical Engineer that made chemicals and plastics but nothing from plastics.    I have come to realize that as much as I enjoy polymer chemistry and  learning new things and solving problems, I think my desire to make things is my main driver.    I want to use 3D printing to make useful things in mine and my friend’s lives. Cost is not a big factor.  Beautiful, unique looking things that sit around are of no interest.  As evidenced by my many vehicles and few collectibles or art objects!
I have been encouraged by the expansion of functional printable models on web sites.  I expect this will only grow.   For my use case, I think I need to get into 3D modeling to be able to make the things I want to make.  Being able to modify a shared model would be great and I may need to start a model from scratch.  
Two questions: First, do you agree that the 3D modeling route is the correct one?  And second, If so, what application(s) should I consider for 3D modeling?  
To further define my interests and capabilities, I got a decent drone to take photos on vacations around the property fueled by my love of YouTube creators.   I like using it but getting the footage edited in the form I’m willing to share with others is too much non-satisfying work on the computer.   The view isn’t worth the climb for me.   Thus the drone sits!  Will my 3D printer sit with it?
Bill the Wood Butcher

Have any of you used any 3D scanners? Are any of them good? I think it's a great idea, but I'm guessing the technology isn't mature yet.
Joe