I really like ECII. It truly does make controlling and setting up lights a WHOLE HECK of a lot easier. The documentation is "per room." Each one of the modules has something to explain the way it works. It's come in pretty handy, but I'm more of the kind to RTFM when I can't figure something out. Also, PCBos has a quick tutorial available on his web site - that was useful too. The interface is a little awkward IMHO, but once you get used to it, it works very nice. I wouldnt say the learning curb was too steep. I havent used it for any close up renders, so I really wont be able to answer your question on shadows. Sorry. Anyway, I really do like this product. I dont know how I did it before Hope this helps. ~ brent ~