Here's a series of images rendered using a wonderfully made sculpture by Adam Skutt.
We used this model to study lighting techniques, along with materials and texturing. The focus was to show off the models high detail using rim and subtle, natural fill lights. Using a setup based off a traditional 3 point setup and adding more lights as needed, allows more range, as if painting with lights, and keeps the subject from looking flat.
Having a Grey Base Color is challenging. Simple is more, but it's not easy and a neutral color such as this - is difficult to work with. There's subtle subsurface scattering in certain areas of the body, most notably in the hand area that looks really cool. A single Dome Light wouldn't give you that kind of scattering alone.. Strategically places lights are essential.
