take a look btw at my prev post (page #2) to see it.

base scene lights were strong, contrasty, simple:

1. a point light behind where the character was gunna be placed.  bluish and set so that it falls off quick--this hits the floor and back walls in a cool tone.

2. front of scene was a spot light--yellowish aiming where char was to be placed.  this made my foreground very hot/warm.

3. i added some objects to 'fake' those skylights--they are just self-illuminated boxes (turn ambient up)--they don't cast light but fake it for the IBL map.

place bill's tool (check prev posts---pretty sure you put it where the 'eye' of camera is), render out your HDR map.

4. now make an IBL light--and attach the map, drop in yer char and go!
   hope this helps