baphomental

Hey I just have a quick question, I've started learning how to mod for SL and I've just learned how to paint onto an object directly in blender. Originally I was fixing seams with deep paint and liked how I could turn the ambient light up and the spotlight down so it's easier to see my changes without dramatic shadows. I can't find any direct references on how to do this in blender, I've tried adding lamps but nothing ever seems to change in the 3d view. Can you help me out? I'm a little overwhelmed.