Lighting is all about narrative. Pick one main source – usually a low, golden horizon that mimics the real sun. Position your terrain so that the shadows fall in the direction the light comes from; it makes the ridges and craters feel like they’re holding up to a real battlefield. Use a subtle back‑light to separate the front layers from the background, giving depth without flattening the scene. When you’re adding detail, keep the highlights consistent with the light source; a stray bright spot on a tank cannon that doesn’t match the horizon will break the illusion. And remember: if the light feels “tactically unrealistic,” it’s time for a redesign. Happy painting!