My lighting varies depending on the scene that I'm working on.  I'm a big fan of point lights and light emitting objects and I really light using lights to add color to my renders. I don't mess around with too much realism and my lighting reflects that.  I'm all about bright colors and contrast.

Example: of Point used to help increase the blue lighting from the spine and the sphere. Object emitting light used on the dragon's spine and the sphere the dragon is holding. A spot light was used to show more of the face. Here lighting is used more for "painting" the character.  This also uses BagginsBills enviroment dome.

Point light only for the the car lights (headlights and red and blue lights) and BB's Environment dome.  I often use the dome without an image or gradient.

Ifinite light, Baggins Bills Environment dome with a gradient.

Painted dragon with spotlights (neck, belly, side) and point lights (eyes, mouth)

Point light for the car lights and spotlights for the character