I know soft shadows are more realistic, but every time I try to use them in scenes I am grossly unhappy with the result.  Normally it seems like there are almost no shadows at all, and what once looked good to me (and fairly realistic) now does not.  Now I know it isnt necessary that images look realistic, and since my images are of my own world it's certainly up to me to make that decision, nevertheless I would like to have more realism in my images and want to find out the best ways to use soft shadows.....so, anyone have any suggestions? 

Thanks again for all your recent help, especially you, Artur....you've helped me immensely.....